Kemi Badenoch urges a national inquiry into the UK’s rape gang issue after Oldham’s request for a public investigation was denied
Oldham: Kemi Badenoch is really pushing for a national inquiry into the UK’s rape gang scandal. This comes after a minister turned down calls for a public investigation into child sexual exploitation in Oldham.
Badenoch took to X to express that a public inquiry into these organized grooming gangs is way overdue. She’s not holding back on this issue.
Meanwhile, safeguarding minister Jess Phillips acknowledged the strong feelings about needing a Home Office-led inquiry. But she made it clear that the government won’t step in, leaving it up to Oldham Council to decide.
Elon Musk even chimed in, saying Phillips should be in prison for her response. He also pointed fingers at the Prime Minister, claiming that during Sir Keir Starmer’s time as director of public prosecutions, young girls were left unprotected.
Badenoch emphasized that it’s high time for a full national inquiry. She pointed out that while trials have happened across the country, no one in authority has really connected the dots.
She tweeted that 2025 should be the year victims finally get justice. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp backed her up, saying it’s crucial to fully investigate this issue and hold those responsible accountable.
Oldham Council is saying that survivors are at the heart of their efforts to combat child sexual exploitation. They’re committed to making sure survivors’ wishes are prioritized in any future inquiries.
Nigel Farage from Reform UK also criticized the Conservatives for not launching an inquiry during their 14 years in power. He believes the establishment has failed the victims on every level.
Before this, Musk pointed out that serious crimes like rape need the Crown Prosecution Service’s approval for police to charge suspects. He questioned who was in charge when these gangs were allowed to exploit young girls.
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, which wrapped up in 2022, called the sexual abuse of children an epidemic. It looked into organized group abuse after several convictions across the UK.
Professor Alexis Jay, who led the inquiry, expressed frustration that none of the 20 recommendations have been acted upon. She stressed the need for public understanding and action on this serious issue.
Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe also called for an inquiry, saying this matter has been ignored for too long. He wants the public to see the extent of the horror and for the government to be transparent about what’s being done to protect young girls.
He raised questions about how many girls are still involved with these gangs and urged for a breakdown of those convicted for such offenses. The Home Office has yet to respond.
