Today in Parliament during PMQs Telford’s MP Lucy Allan raised the issue of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) in Telford.
Last spring, Telford & Wrekin Council agreed to commission an independent inquiry into CSE in Telford following a lengthy campaign by victims, survivors and their families.
Almost a year later the inquiry has still not yet got underway. The appointment of a Chair to lead the inquiry still has not taken place.
Lucy Allan took the opportunity to ask the Prime Minister if she agreed that the failure to hold the inquiry was letting down victims and the community.
The MP was also able to ask the Prime Minister if she would urge the authorities in Telford to deliver on their promises and start the inquiry now.
Responding the Prime Minister said:
“These crimes were utterly appalling and that is why we have given highest priority to tackling CSE.
“It is very concerning that this inquiry has taken so long to start. It is in the interest of the victims and survivors that the inquiry is set up and running as soon as possible. That is what people deserve.”
Lucy Allan said:
“I was pleased to have the opportunity to raise this important issue with the Prime Minister today in Parliament.
“It has been almost a year since the council agreed to start this inquiry and since then little progress has been made. It is vital that they get on with it as a matter of urgency and appoint a chair to lead this inquiry so that the survivors and their families can finally get some justice and rebuild their lives.
“I will continue to raise this in Parliament and with my Ministerial colleagues.”