Labour leader Keir Starmer voiced his support for Jess Phillips on Thursday following the withdrawal of four women from the grooming gangs inquiry, who indicated they may reconsider if the safeguarding minister stepped down.
Several ministers came to Phillips’ defense, highlighting her long-standing advocacy for abused young girls. Health Secretary Wes Streeting also commended her efforts.
The Government disclosed that it might take “months” to appoint a chair for the grooming gangs inquiry after the initial candidate, former deputy chief constable Jim Gamble, withdrew. Efforts are underway to involve victims and survivors in selecting the right chair, a process that could be time-consuming.
In response to Phillips’ dispute with victims and survivors over her statements, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the national inquiry to uncover the truth and deliver justice. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy acknowledged recent challenges but emphasized the need to progress.
Children’s Minister Josh MacAlister clarified that opposition to Phillips may have arisen from a misunderstanding about the inquiry’s scope. The survivors’ concerns about expanding the inquiry’s focus led to their objections.
The women who withdrew from the advisory panel outlined five conditions for their return, including the freedom for victims to speak openly, maintaining focus on grooming gangs, and replacing the victim liaison lead with a mental health professional.