A senior Tory MP has launched a scathing attack on the Labour government over its handling of inquiries into child sexual exploitation cases.Robbie Moore expressed fury that Bradford district has so far been excluded from local inquiries, despite his consistent calls for investigation in the area.The MP claimed that if an inquiry took place in Bradford, it would “dwarf the scale of Oldham’s” investigation.His criticism comes amid accusations that Labour is watering down its pledges on tackling grooming gangs.Moore highlighted the council’s refusal to allow an inquiry in Bradford, saying the Home Secretary had provided “no reassurance” on the matter.The MP expressed frustration over the lack of a developed framework for the inquiries.LATEST DEVELOPMENTSGrooming gangs taskforce makes more than 1,000 arrests – ‘These vile gangs have no place to hide!’Labour DROPS commitment for five local grooming gang inquiriesGrooming gangs taskforce makes more than 1,000 arrests – ‘These vile gangs have no place to hide!'”There has been no framework worked up. There was no mention today whatsoever of five local inquiries,” Moore stated.He pointed out that while the Home Secretary had initially promised £5 million would be allocated to five different local inquiries, only Oldham has been confirmed.The funding arrangement has also changed, according to Moore.”The £5 million being referenced is also being watered down to spend to be allowed to spend on other things beyond the additional four local inquiries,” he said.Conservative frontbencher Katie Lam has also raised concerns about the progress of these inquiries.She told the Commons that MPs know “almost nothing” about the development of local inquiries into “rape gangs which have terrorised so many innocent children”.Lam questioned why the framework for local inquiries is now being led by ministers rather than independent voices.She also raised concerns about the racial and religious aspects of these crimes.”The girls we’re talking about are predominantly white, the men who preyed on them were predominantly Muslim generally, either from Pakistan or of Pakistani heritage,” Lam stated.She called for a “dedicated unit” in the National Crime Agency to investigate allegations of collusion.Moore emphasised the gravity of the situation for victims and survivors who have “horrifically gone through” these experiences.His frustration was particularly focused on Bradford, which he believes requires urgent attention.”That is why the Government needs to get a grip on this issue to force an inquiry,” Moore insisted.The MP’s comments reflect growing tension between local authorities refusing inquiries and central government’s approach to investigating historical abuse.Critics suggest the government’s current strategy lacks the necessary force to overcome local resistance to scrutiny.Moore’s intervention adds to mounting pressure on the Labour administration to clarify its commitment to addressing child sexual exploitation across the country.
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