Starmer Launches Statutory Inquiry into UK Grooming Scandal: A Political Turning Point
Background & Casey Report
On June 16, 2025, Baroness Louise Casey published a 197-page audit into historic grooming gangs in the UK. Her findings highlighted “serious institutional failings” and prompted urgent calls for reform—such as enhanced data collection, accountability for complicit officials, and possible changes to rape legislation and quashing convictions of abuse survivors
Starmer’s Policy Reversal
Previously, Keir Starmer had rejected calls for a nationwide inquiry, accusing those demanding one of aligning with a "far-right bandwagon." However, upon reviewing Casey’s findings, he announced a full statutory national inquiry designed to "go wherever the evidence leads," including questions of ethnicity and failings in public services.
This reversal is being called a significant U‑turn, one of Starmer’s most high-profile to date, and comes after earlier policy shifts on winter fuel payments among others.Political & Community Fallout
While intended to demonstrate accountability, the decision has sparked criticism. Some argue that re‑opening this emotional and politically fraught issue is overdue but insufficient. Survivors’ groups and families are calling for a fully independent inquiry, saying Starmer’s plan still lacks teeth In Parliament, heated exchanges ensued. Labour’s own Yvette Cooper led the Commons statement, while Conservative MPs attacked the slow pace of Starmer's U‑turn.
Strategic Risks for Labour
The scandal's deep roots in traditionally Labour-controlled regions—like Rotherham and Rochdale—mean the party is walking a political tightrope. The move risks alienating Muslim voters concerned about community profiling while also facing pressure from the broader public demanding action.
By launching the inquiry, Starmer hopes to head off far-right claims and restore public trust—but many warn that revelations of past cover-ups could hurt Labour’s image across multiple communities