A potential candidate to lead the investigation into grooming gangs has stepped back, accusing Kemi Badenoch of politicizing the inquiry and using victims for political gain. This development follows Keir Starmer’s assurance that the investigation would remain robust despite four survivors withdrawing their support due to lack of confidence in the process.
The Government faced turmoil as four survivors of horrific abuse resigned, citing their distrust in the system. Another potential chair for the inquiry, former police officer Jim Gamble, also withdrew, criticizing politicians for prioritizing personal and political agendas over the investigation.
During a session of PMQs, Kemi Badenoch shared the concerns of a survivor, Fiona Goddard, who questioned the value of speaking out if they were labeled as liars. Fiona Goddard and another survivor, Ellie-Ann Reynolds, resigned from the inquiry’s victims and survivors liaison panel.
Jim Gamble expressed disappointment in how Kemi Badenoch and others engaged with the inquiry, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue with survivors to address their varied needs. He suggested a transparent selection process for the inquiry chair through public interviews before a Parliamentary committee.
Gamble called for unity among politicians of all affiliations to chart a way forward without exploiting victims as political tools. He highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue promptly to prevent further harm to vulnerable individuals in the future.