Labour faces backlash for halting an inquiry into Sir Keir Starmer’s role during the Oldham grooming scandal, raising serious concerns.
Oldham: So, Labour is really standing by its decision to block an inquiry into Sir Keir Starmer’s time as head of the Crown Prosecution Service during the grooming gang scandal. It’s a pretty big deal, right?
Jess Phillips, the safeguarding minister, is saying it’s up to the local council to decide if they need an inquiry. But many think that’s just dodging the issue.
It’s been reported that a lot of girls were abused by gangs, and the authorities didn’t act because they were scared of being called racist. Starmer was in charge back then, and now people are questioning his role.
Elon Musk even chimed in, calling the decision “disgraceful” and suggesting it’s all about protecting Starmer. Kemi Badenoch from the Conservatives is pushing for a national inquiry, saying it’s way overdue.
Labour’s spokesperson called the crimes horrific but still defended their stance. They mentioned supporting other inquiries in different areas but seem hesitant to dig into this one.
They want to see an independent investigation led by Oldham council, which is a bit of a shift from their earlier position. It’s like they’re trying to cover their bases.
Oldham council had previously asked for help from the Home Office, but Phillips said it’s not the government’s job to step in. This has led to some serious back-and-forth between parties.
Philp and Kearns from Labour are urging Phillips to reconsider, especially since it took her ages to respond to the council’s request. They want to make sure Starmer’s actions as DPP are part of any inquiry.
There’s a lot of frustration about how the system has failed these young girls. A report from last year highlighted how agencies didn’t protect them, and now people are demanding accountability.
Even JK Rowling has weighed in, expressing concern about possible police corruption in these cases. It’s a messy situation, and many are calling for justice for the victims.
