Official UK government announcements or reports

UK Parliament Votes 364-111 Against Grooming Gangs Inquiry amid Starmer-Badenoch Clash

Jan 8, 2025, 07:12 PM

British MPs have voted against a national inquiry into grooming gangs, rejecting the amendment by 364 votes to 111. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Party opposed the proposal put forward by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who called for a fresh investigation into the scandal. During Prime Minister's Questions, Badenoch urged Starmer to 'be a leader, not a lawyer,' emphasizing that 'it's not about you, it's about the victims.' Starmer accused Badenoch of 'jumping on the bandwagon,' noting that she had not previously raised the issue during her eight years as an MP. Labour MPs were instructed to vote against the amendment, arguing that the 2022 Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse was thorough and that victims need action rather than further delays. The decision has sparked criticism from victims' advocates and campaigners who argue that a national inquiry is essential for justice and accountability.