Grooming Gang Survivors Call for Jess Phillips to Resign
Survivors of grooming gangs are pressing for the resignation of Jess Phillips as safeguarding minister to restore confidence in the ongoing national inquiry, reports BritPanorama.
Four women, who recently stepped down from the inquiry’s Victims Liaison Panel, stated they would consider returning only if Phillips is removed from her position. They described Phillips as “unfit” for her role, alleging that she has dismissed their concerns regarding the inquiry’s trajectory.
The demand from Elizabeth Harper, Fiona Goddard, Ellie-Ann Reynolds, and a survivor identified only as “Jessica” intensifies pressure on Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to act against the safeguarding minister. In a letter addressed to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the survivors expressed that being publicly contradicted by a government representative has evoked feelings of disbelief similar to those experienced during their ordeals.
“It is a betrayal that has destroyed what little trust remained,” their letter noted, while they specifically criticized the selection of two final candidates to chair the inquiry—a retired police officer and a social care director—citing their associations with organizations that had previously concealed the grooming scandal.
In Parliament, Sir Keir stated that he would welcome the four survivors back to the victims’ panel, though he acknowledged their conditions. The women emphasized that Phillips’ resignation would demonstrate a commitment to accountability and meaningful change.
In recent developments, the inquiry has faced further turmoil with the withdrawal of the remaining candidates to lead it. Former police chief Jim Gamble resigned just one day after social worker Annie Hudson opted out, leaving the inquiry without a chair. Gamble cited a lack of confidence among victims regarding his prior role, condemning the “toxic environment” surrounding the inquiry.
Amid these challenges, a spokesperson for the Home Office expressed disappointment regarding the withdrawals, acknowledging the sensitivity of the topic and the need to appoint the most suitable individual for the inquiry’s leadership.
As the inquiry grapples with these issues, the calls for leadership accountability highlight the need for trust and transparency in addressing the historical failures surrounding the grooming gang scandals.
The intricate dynamics of this inquiry illustrate the ongoing struggles within the UK to confront past injustices while ensuring that victims’ voices are heard and respected in processes meant to safeguard their interests.
