Yvette Cooper announces a statutory inquiry into grooming gangs in the UK

On June 16, 2025, the Home Secretary of the UK, Yvette Cooper, disclosed plans for a full statutory inquiry into the issue of grooming gangs. This decision comes after the release of a rapid national audit conducted by Baroness Louise Casey of Blackstock, which revealed alarming statistics and patterns relating to child sexual exploitation across England. The audit highlighted that organizations had historically avoided discussing race in these matters, fearing perceptions of racism. It pointed out a significant overrepresentation of men of Asian and Pakistani heritage among suspects in grooming cases. Previously, Sir Keir Starmer had resisted calls for a national inquiry, stating they were unnecessary, but the Casey report prompted a shift in his stance, leading him to support the inquiry amid mounting pressure from various stakeholders, including public figures like Elon Musk. The statutory inquiry is expected to not only identify systemic failures by institutions responsible for child protection but also to ensure accountability and justice for victims. It will have the authority to compel witnesses and require the provision of evidence, marking a significant step forward in tackling this serious issue that has plagued the UK for many years. The findings from this inquiry are anticipated to build upon earlier investigations, including the extensive review by Professor Alexis Jay, which had outlined numerous failings in how authorities responded to cases of child sexual abuse. Ultimately, this development aims to prevent similar failures in the future and restore faith in the systems designed to protect vulnerable children.