Labour Accused of Abandoning Local Grooming Gang Inquiries to Appease Asian Voters

Former Equalities Czar Speaks Out

Labour has been accused of abandoning local grooming gang inquiries in order to appease its Asian voters, according to former equalities czar Sir Trevor Phillips. He criticized ministers for watering down investigations into the scandal, calling their actions "utterly, utterly shameful."

Backlash Against Softening Approach

A £5 million fund allocated for five inquiries into child rape gangs has now been redirected to other projects like victims' panels, a move that has sparked criticism. While Labour anticipates some inquiries to proceed, the perceived softening in approach has triggered a backlash.

Government Figures Criticized

Sir Trevor Phillips, who previously chaired the Equality and Human Rights Commission, condemned government figures for their handling of the situation. He suggested that the decision to abandon inquiries was influenced by the demographics of those involved and the potential offense it may cause to Labour's Asian voters.

Denial and Response

In response to the accusations, Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips denied that the government was diluting its response to the issue. She attributed the controversy to "too much party political misinformation" and reassured that efforts to seek justice for victims and combat predators targeting vulnerable children would continue.