Lucy Powell Faces Resignation Calls Over Gang Remarks

Labour Cabinet minister Lucy Powell is under intense pressure from Conservative politicians to resign after describing the issue of grooming gangs as a 'dog whistle' during a BBC radio programme, a comment made in response to a Channel 4 documentary on child sexual exploitation. Senior Tories, including Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, condemned her remarks, claiming they belittled victims and accused Labour of blocking a national inquiry. Powell has apologized, clarifying her intention was to criticize political point scoring, not minimize the seriousness of child exploitation. Health Secretary Wes Streeting defended Powell, saying she was 'mortified' and emphasized Labour's commitment to supporting victims. The government has opted for locally-led probes and a rapid audit instead of a national inquiry, which has intensified opposition criticism. Streeting also responded to public impatience for change following Labour's poor local election results, asking for more time to deliver on promises.