Keir Starmer expressed support for Jess Phillips on Thursday following the withdrawal of four women from the grooming gangs inquiry who indicated a possible return conditional on the resignation of the safeguarding minister.
Several ministers came to the defense of Ms. Phillips, with one highlighting her longstanding dedication to advocating for abused young girls. Health Secretary Wes Streeting also commended her efforts.
The search for a chairperson for the grooming gangs inquiry could extend for “months,” according to a Government source. Efforts are ongoing to appoint a suitable leader after the initial top candidate, former deputy chief constable Jim Gamble, withdrew from consideration.
Government officials plan to consult with victims and survivors to identify the desired qualities in the inquiry chair. However, the process of appointing the right individual may be protracted.
In correspondence to the Home Secretary, victims and survivors criticized Ms. Phillips for dismissing some of their claims as false despite evidence suggesting otherwise.
During a visit, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of a thorough national inquiry into grooming gangs, praising Jess Phillips for her extensive work on issues related to violence against women and girls.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy acknowledged recent challenges but emphasized the need to persevere and progress. He highlighted the complexity of the situation, drawing on his experience in handling similar difficult cases throughout his career.
Children’s Minister Josh MacAlister clarified that opposition to Ms. Phillips may have arisen from a misunderstanding regarding the inquiry’s scope, emphasizing the importance of clarity in defining its parameters.
One of the women involved, Ellie-Ann Reynolds, cited concerns about broadening the inquiry’s scope to diminish the racial and religious aspects of their abuse as a significant factor in their decision to withdraw.
The women outlined five conditions for their potential return to the advisory panel, including the freedom for victims to speak openly without fear of consequences and maintaining a focused approach on grooming gangs within the inquiry’s scope.