Overview
- Fiona Goddard and Ellie-Ann Reynolds resigned from the victims and survivors liaison panel, alleging secretive conduct, condescending treatment and a toxic environment.
- Both criticised a shortlist for inquiry chair that includes former police chief Jim Gamble and social work leader Annie Hudson, arguing this risks conflicts of interest.
- Reynolds warned that efforts to widen the remit beyond group-based grooming could downplay racial and religious drivers of the abuse, a concern echoed by Goddard.
- The Home Office denied any watering down and said it remains committed to a thorough investigation, while No 10 and ministers said survivors remain central as an appointment nears.
- Opposition figures, including Robert Jenrick, urged a judge-led inquiry with statutory powers, as policing chief Sir Mark Rowley noted a steady flow of live multi-offender exploitation cases.