Kemi Badenoch's bid for child rape gangs inquiry blocked by Labour MPs

Labour MPs defeat Tory amendment

KEMI Badenoch's attempt to launch a national inquiry into child rape gangs was thwarted by Labour MPs. Sir Keir Starmer used his majority to defeat a Tory amendment seeking a fresh probe into the grooming scandal. The majority against the amendment was 253, with 364 MPs voting against it compared to 111 in favor.

PM pledges action in the face of opposition

Despite the setback, Prime Minister Boris Johnson emphasized the need for action over further inquiry delays. He pledged a series of measures to protect children, indicating that his Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill would have faced collapse if Badenoch's amendment had succeeded.

Accusations and counter-accusations fly

The debate saw Tory shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp condemning Labour MPs for blocking the inquiry, accusing them of prioritizing party interests over justice for victims. In response, Sir Keir Starmer and Boris Johnson clashed over the handling of the grooming scandal, with accusations of inaction and cover-up flying from both sides.

Elon Musk weighs in

US billionaire Elon Musk added fuel to the fire by accusing Sir Keir of hiding terrible things by denying an inquiry. Musk's relentless tweets and attacks on Labour figures brought the scandal back into the spotlight, further intensifying the debate.