Overview
- At PMQs, Keir Starmer said the inquiry's scope will not change and will examine offenders’ ethnicity and religion, with Dame Louise Casey now supporting its work.
- Four members of the victims and survivors panel resigned this week citing a toxic environment and fears the remit would be broadened, and ministers insist the inquiry will have statutory powers to compel evidence.
- Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips denied any watering down, while survivor Fiona Goddard accused her of calling her a liar and renewed calls for Phillips to resign.
- Consultation materials sent to panel members asked whether the probe should focus on “grooming gangs” or take a broader approach, deepening distrust among survivors.
- The chair has yet to be appointed after Annie Hudson reportedly withdrew, with survivors objecting to prospective candidates from policing and social work.