Jess Phillips Shocks Keir Starmer by Refusing to Rule Out Inquiry into Grooming Gangs
Jess Phillips, the safeguarding minister at the Home Office, has signaled a possible major change of direction regarding grooming gang inquiries. Just days after ruling out the possibility of such an inquiry, Phillips now suggests that “nothing is off the table,” indicating that a fresh investigation could be launched if victims voice the need for it.
In a conversation on Sky News’ Electoral Dysfunction podcast, Phillips appeared to reconsider her stance, offering a more open approach to the issue. When asked if she would consider a new inquiry, she emphasized her willingness to listen to the victims. “Nothing is off the table. Nothing is off the table,” she asserted. “If the victims come forward to me in this victims panel that I will make, and they say ‘actually we think there needs to be a national inquiry into this’, I’ll listen to them.”
Phillips acknowledged that a formal inquiry may not be necessary for some cases, however. She remarked that the evidence already at hand indicates that there are individuals who should face imprisonment for their roles in covering up horrific sexual crimes against children. While advocating for the importance of a victim-centered approach, she also made it clear that decisions would be made with safeguarding experience and evidence in mind, not based on public debates.
“I refuse to make government decisions on the basis of a row,” she firmly stated, reinforcing her commitment to ensuring decisions are rooted in professional knowledge rather than political noise.
Her comments come just hours after she addressed concerns related to her personal safety. Phillips claimed that Elon Musk’s recent accusations on social media platform X were potentially compromising her well-being, further emphasizing the high level of attention and pressure she faces in her role.
The minister’s shift in position reflects a broader sensitivity to the voices of victims in these highly controversial and sensitive matters. As she moves forward with plans to establish a victims’ panel, Phillips’ latest remarks highlight her readiness to adapt and listen to those directly affected by the crimes.
Phillips’ stance underscores the complexities surrounding grooming gang inquiries and the delicate balance between responding to public outcry and safeguarding the needs of those who have been most harmed.