Elon Musk's criticism of the UK government's handling of grooming gangs, particularly targeting Labour's Keir Starmer, has ignited a political firestorm. The tech billionaire, using his platform X, has accused the government of inaction and implicated Starmer. The controversy stems from the safeguarding minister's rejection of a national inquiry into child sexual exploitation and grooming in Oldham.
The controversy began after safeguarding minister Jess Phillips declined a request for a government-led inquiry. Phillips cited Oldham Council's authority to independently investigate the issue. This decision, however, prompted immediate backlash, including Musk's assertion that Phillips "deserves to be in prison" and accusations that the government is failing to address the issue.
Musk further amplified his criticism, linking Starmer's time as Director of Public Prosecutions to the alleged failures in addressing the grooming gangs. He implied that rape gangs were permitted to exploit children without consequences during this period. Starmer responded by stating that those spreading misinformation were not focused on victims.
Following the initial controversy, high-profile figures like Tory leader Kemi Badenoch joined the chorus calling for a full national inquiry. This further escalated the pressure on the government.
The government, however, has defended its response. Health Secretary Wes Streeting underscored the government's commitment to tackling child sexual exploitation, rejecting Musk's claims as misinformed. He suggested cooperation with Musk, while ministers like Andrew Gwynne urged him to concentrate on US issues.
Despite the calls for a national inquiry, the government maintains that local authorities have the responsibility for such investigations, citing previous cases like those in Rotherham and Telford, and the findings of the 2022 Professor Alexis Jay report. The Jay report addressed issues related to child abuse by organized groups but noted frustration over a lack of implementation of its recommendations.
Ultimately, the government's stance centers on supporting local inquiries, emphasizing existing investigations. While acknowledging the possibility of additional probes into specific locales like Oldham, the government remains hesitant to initiate a national inquiry.
