House of Commons · Urgent Question
21 October 2025 · 27 other contributors
Opened by Chris Philp Con Croydon South
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Chris Philp raised concerns about rape gangs national statutory inquiry 2025-10-21 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Will the Home Secretary confirm the continuation of Baroness Casey’s recommendations and address concerns regarding delays, scope dilution, and the suitability of inquiry chair appointments in relation to the statutory inquiry into the rape gang scandal?
Question
Does the Minister agree that the scandal arose from systematic cover-ups by those in authority due to perpetrator ethnicity, and why have two liaison panel members resigned recently expressing concerns over lack of confidence in the Government?
Minister reply
The right hon. Gentleman misunderstands; no silencing has occurred. Victims and survivors have diverse opinions, and engagement with all is ongoing. We are transparently consulting on terms of reference publicly to avoid bad faith accusations.
Question
What arrangements have been put in place to ensure a clear front door for support independent of councils and police forces, especially as local investigations are essential but should not limit the inquiry's reach?
Minister reply
The chair will be empowered to decide terms of reference within public consultation. No stone will be left unturned regarding evidence beyond council or police boundaries.
Question
Will the Minister commit to publishing full details including budget, staffing, and a timeline by the end of the month to ensure integrity and trust in the inquiry process?
Minister reply
Terms of reference will be consulted on publicly post-chair appointment. The process ensures stakeholder feedback is considered; rushing it would compromise thoroughness.
Question
Does the Minister agree survivors were failed by Conservative Governments for prioritising justice, and this Government’s actions now reflect a change in approach to protect victims of rape gangs?
Minister reply
Survivors like my hon. Friend have campaigned fiercely; I am proud we are implementing changes they fought for. This Government is committed to protecting grooming gang victims.
Question
May I put on record Jim Gamble as a highly regarded police officer with experience in child exploitation, whose leadership of the CEOP centre proved fearless and independent? Will the Minister confirm that the inquiry will not shy away from issues of race or class?
Minister reply
First and foremost, I absolutely confirm that the inquiry will not shy away from issues of race or class. The Home Office has asked police forces to collect data on ethnicity for the first time. Regarding Jim Gamble, his leadership was admirable but he resigned over differing views with previous governments.
Question
Victims of grooming crimes were vulnerable children ignored and gaslit. Two victims have now resigned due to the process' failures. Will the Minister listen to these victims?
Minister reply
I absolutely regret that victims have resigned from the process. I am meant to be hearing their feedback right now, which is why my door is always open for them.
Question
The Minister has reiterated that victims must be at the centre of an inquiry. Will she tell us what she intends to do to ensure this aim is fully implemented?
Minister reply
During the inquiry, ensuring victim support will be a matter for the chair. I am always committed to supporting victims and ensuring they have a voice.
Question
Given that two of the victims have walked away from the inquiry, how will the Minister ensure a fully independent inquiry prominently including victims?
Minister reply
There is difficulty in ensuring an easy process for victims. I am listening to their feedback and making sure they feel safe in engaging with the process.
Question
Will the Minister confirm what resources are available to ensure survivors are properly supported through the process, and update on system delays and Jay inquiry recommendations?
Minister reply
I will chair an inter-ministerial cross-Government group next week to push through other recommendations. The work on 216 cases that moved forward is ongoing alongside this.
Question
Will the Minister commit to speaking to both Fiona Goddard and Ellie-Ann Reynolds to try and encourage and reassure them that their voices will be heard?
Minister reply
The opportunity has already been presented to them. I am more than happy to speak with them again if needed.
Question
Will the Minister reassure all right-thinking people that this inquiry will look at everything, including the role of ethnicity?
Minister reply
The inquiry will not shy away from findings where they are present. Anybody who has worked in this space knows that ethnicity may be a factor.
Question
How will the Minister update the House on how the inquiry will report back and what scrutiny the House will have over actions of the inquiry?
Minister reply
The process is designed to maintain independence while ensuring thorough reporting. The inter-ministerial group next week will discuss these matters further.
Question
Can the Minister set out more about how she will ensure that this trauma-informed approach is woven through the ongoing inquiry?
Minister reply
The Government has committed to fully funding all recommendations from Baroness Casey. The process for ensuring a trauma-informed approach involves consultations with victims and experts, aiming to create an environment where survivors feel supported.
Question
Does the Minister agree that the victims of these horrific crimes will never get justice as long as Labour is in charge?
Minister reply
It is unfortunate that some would attempt to politicise an issue of such importance. The Government remains committed to providing a rigorous and independent inquiry, despite political disagreements.
Question
How does the Minister propose to handle concerns raised by Ellie Reynolds regarding financial dependency and isolation?
Minister reply
I am open to speaking directly with Ellie Reynolds to understand her specific concerns. The inquiry aims to balance confidentiality with victim support, ensuring that no one is silenced or discouraged from sharing their experiences.
Question
Is the Minister concerned about survivors describing the process as toxic and fearful?
Minister reply
I am committed to listening to all feedback and will engage with those involved in the inquiry to ensure their voices are heard and addressed.
Question
Does the Minister agree that getting the right chair is key to ensuring victims' needs are met?
Minister reply
Absolutely, finding the right chair for this inquiry is crucial. The Government will work diligently to ensure that the chosen individual commands the necessary confidence and can guide the inquiry effectively.
Question
How does the Minister show victims in Wales how this inquiry will be guided by their best interests?
Minister reply
The chair of the inquiry will play a pivotal role. We are working to establish a system that prioritises victim care and ensures their voices are central to the process.
Question
Can the Minister be clear that the inquiry will not be watered down, particularly in its focus on ethnicity?
Minister reply
This is a grooming gangs inquiry as defined by Baroness Casey. It will maintain its focus and adhere to the recommendations provided.
Question
How can the Minister address the credibility gap on this issue?
Minister reply
Balancing detailed reporting with maintaining public confidence is crucial. We aim to provide a clear and consistent message while addressing misinformation.
Question
Will the Minister take the time to find the right judge for this inquiry?
Minister reply
Absolutely, finding the right chair is a priority. No matter who is picked, there will be some dissatisfaction, but we aim to select the best possible candidate.
Question
What powers does the Minister have to intervene in the panel's process, and will she provide assurances that the inquiry will not be staffed by individuals who previously dismissed survivors' concerns as racist slurs?
Minister reply
I can intervene if necessary. However, I chose an independent approach with experts in the field. Regarding staffing, victims have different political views; no one will be silenced based on their opinions.
Question
What advice does the Minister give to Scottish MPs regarding the lack of acknowledgment or action from the Scottish Government in addressing organised child exploitation?
Minister reply
Victims may live near borders, so findings will likely cross them. Trafficking doesn't respect geographical boundaries. Continue working with survivor groups for independent scrutiny and case reviews.
Question
Does the Minister agree that the inquiry is not getting this right, and will she instruct immediate action to give young women their voice back and ensure justice is served?
Minister reply
I share his frustration. We must sort out problems where possible, look at what went wrong, hold people accountable, and prevent future abuse.
Question
Will the Minister meet Baroness Grey-Thompson to discuss remedying the Crime and Policing Bill's proposals on mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse to align with IICSA recommendations?
Minister reply
Yes, I will arrange a meeting. Getting mandatory reporting right is vital, but there are different views on both sides.
Question
Will the Minister confirm to Blackpool constituents that the grooming gangs inquiry will be thorough and comprehensive, examining every avenue to uncover the truth?
Minister reply
Absolutely, I assure my hon. Friend's constituents that the inquiry is committed to a full and transparent investigation.
Government Response
The Government remain committed to delivering Baroness Casey’s recommendations regarding the national audit of group-based child sexual exploitation and abuse. A statutory national inquiry under the Inquiries Act 2005 will oversee local investigations with full powers to compel evidence, limited to three years for timely responses. The appointment of the chair is at a critical stage, and we are engaging victims and survivors to ensure their perspectives remain central in shaping terms of reference and the chair's selection process. We reject allegations of delays or dilution of scope and will continue to progress swiftly while ensuring thoroughness.