Grooming Gangs: Independent Inquiry Debate

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Department: Home Office

Grooming Gangs: Independent Inquiry

Chris Bloore Excerpts
Thursday 18th June 2026

(1 month, 1 week ago)

Commons Chamber
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Sarah Jones Portrait Sarah Jones
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As the hon. Lady says, we have quashed convictions for people under 18 who were tried for prostitution—a very important part of this picture—and Louise Casey is suggesting that we go further. At the moment, victims can come in and apply, and I think she wants a more proactive response, so we are working on more proactive guidance for victims.

Chris Bloore Portrait Chris Bloore (Redditch) (Lab)
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I thank the Minister for her response, and for her reassurance that this inquiry will have the powers to go wherever and to whomever it needs to get the answers for families in Redditch and other areas affected by these heinous crimes. When the initial set of inquiries are announced, if the area I represent is not included, but I still want to persist and ensure families get the justice they require, how am I best placed to do that via the Department and the Minister?

Sarah Jones Portrait Sarah Jones
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As I have said, the inquiry is independent of the Government, as is right and proper. I suggest he speaks to Anne Longfield, who is leading this work, or her panel. When they make their announcement, I am sure people will say, “Well, what about other areas?” I am sure they will be working through that and dealing with the priorities as they see them, and I am sure they would welcome input from my hon. Friend.