UK Government Plans Nationwide Inquiry into Grooming Gangs

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced a national inquiry into grooming gangs after months of political pressure and growing public scrutiny, following a conviction of seven men for sexually exploiting two teenage girls. The inquiry comes after Baroness Louise Casey completed a months-long audit, recommending a full national investigation into the scandal, which is reportedly linked to men of Pakistani origin and includes concerns that white British girls were institutionally ignored over fears of racism. Starmer accepted the recommendation, emphasizing the need to implement the 200 recommendations from various reviews and to address allegations of cover-ups and mishandling by police and local authorities. The inquiry will have broad powers, including compelling local investigations and witness testimonies, and aims to end a culture of denial within local authorities. Despite the announcement, Starmer has faced criticism for previously dismissing calls for an inquiry as far-right propaganda and for delays in taking action, with opposition figures accusing him of distraction tactics and inadequate responses. The government has also been urged to reevaluate local policies such as taxi licensing, which facilitated victim transportation, and to ensure comprehensive national-level scrutiny of the issue.