In a landmark decision, Oldham Council has unanimously voted to demand a statutory public inquiry into historic and ongoing cases of child sexual exploitation (CSE) in the borough. This comes after growing public pressure for a more transparent and legally binding investigation following past failures in tackling grooming gangs and systemic abuse.
The motion, proposed by Councillor Lewis Quigg, calls for a judge-led inquiry with statutory powers, ensuring that government institutions, law enforcement agencies, and local authorities cannot evade scrutiny. The decision marks a crucial step toward securing justice for survivors and holding those responsible to account.
The Demand for a Statutory Inquiry
The vote on February 13, 2025, follows years of mounting concern over historic cases of child abuse in Oldham, as well as ongoing fears that children remain at risk due to systemic failures in policing and social services.
A previous independent review, conducted in 2022, revealed serious failings by Greater Manchester Police and Oldham Council in protecting vulnerable children from exploitation. However, campaigners and councillors argued that the review lacked the legal authority to compel key figures to testify, leaving many questions unanswered.
With this latest motion, Oldham councillors are now demanding a full statutory inquiry, similar to the Telford Inquiry, which exposed widespread failings in tackling child exploitation in other parts of the UK.
Key Objectives of the Inquiry
✔ Hold institutions accountable – Ensure police, councils, and government bodies face scrutiny over past and current handling of child exploitation cases.
✔ Support victims and survivors – Provide a platform for survivors to share their experiences and receive justice.
✔ Expose cover-ups – Investigate alleged failures by authorities to act on intelligence regarding grooming gangs.
✔ Prevent future abuse – Ensure that lessons are learned and effective safeguarding measures are put in place.
Councillor Lewis Quigg, who proposed the motion, stated:
“This national public inquiry is about righting an incredible wrong. It’s time to lift the lid on this national scandal of children who have been abused in some of the most evil acts.”
Why a Statutory Inquiry is Necessary
Unlike previous local reviews, a statutory public inquiry would be legally binding, meaning it can summon witnesses, compel evidence, and hold public institutions accountable.
Differences Between a Local Review and a Statutory Inquiry:
| Feature | Local Review | Statutory Inquiry |
|---|---|---|
| Legally Binding? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Can Compel Witnesses? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Government Oversight? | ❌ Limited | ✅ Direct involvement |
| Access to Full Evidence? | ❌ Restricted | ✅ Full access |
In November 2024, the Home Office rejected calls for a statutory inquiry into Oldham’s CSE crisis, citing budgetary constraints and existing local measures. However, this decision faced widespread backlash, with campaigners arguing that survivors deserve the full truth.
Following Oldham Council’s unanimous vote, pressure is now mounting on Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to reconsider and authorize a full national inquiry.
Survivors and Community Leaders Speak Out
The call for a public inquiry has been met with strong support from survivors, campaigners, and community leaders, who believe that past inquiries have failed to provide real justice.
Survivor Voices
One survivor, who was abused in Oldham in the early 2000s, shared her thoughts:
“For years, we were ignored. The police, the council – they knew what was happening, and they did nothing. We need a proper inquiry so those who let this happen are finally held to account.”
British Pakistani Muslim Community Stands in Support
The motion also received support from local Muslim leaders, who emphasized their commitment to rooting out predators and ensuring justice.
Councillor Abdul Wahid stated:
“We as British Pakistani Muslims are not interested in statistics. Even one predator in our community is one too many. That’s why we will do what we must here and within our communities to root out these criminals, who have tarnished the good name of British Pakistani Muslims across the country.”
Political and National Reactions
The unanimous decision by Oldham Council has reignited a national debate over the UK’s handling of child sexual exploitation cases.
National Leaders Weigh In
✔ Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has expressed cautious support, stating that any inquiry must be “victim-centered.”
✔ Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is facing renewed calls to reverse her previous decision and authorize a full government-backed inquiry.
✔ The Conservative opposition has accused Labour of “dragging their feet”, urging stronger action to protect vulnerable children.
What Happens Next?
Now that Oldham Council has officially demanded a statutory inquiry, the next steps depend on the Home Office and Greater Manchester authorities.
Possible Outcomes:
🔹 Home Office Approval – If Yvette Cooper authorizes a statutory inquiry, a judge-led investigation could begin within months.
🔹 Continued Political Pressure – MPs and campaigners may lobby Parliament to push the government into action.
🔹 Further Delays or Rejection – If the government rejects the demand, Oldham councillors may seek legal action or alternative routes for justice.
What This Means for Other Towns
If Oldham succeeds in securing a statutory inquiry, it could set a precedent for similar investigations in other UK towns where CSE scandals have been uncovered.
Conclusion
Oldham Council’s unanimous vote to demand a statutory public inquiry marks a major turning point in the fight for justice for victims of child sexual exploitation.
With growing public and political pressure, the UK government now faces a crucial decision: Will it grant a full, judge-led inquiry, or will survivors continue to be denied the justice they deserve?
As the debate continues, one thing remains clear—victims and campaigners will not stop fighting for the truth.
FAQs
1. Why is Oldham Council demanding a statutory public inquiry?
The council believes that previous reviews failed to hold authorities accountable and that only a legally bindinginquiry can uncover the full truth.
2. What is the difference between a local review and a statutory inquiry?
A statutory inquiry has legal powers to compel evidence and witnesses, making it more thorough and transparentthan a local review.
3. Has the UK government responded to Oldham’s request?
As of now, the Home Office has not granted the inquiry, but growing pressure may force a reconsideration.
4. Who supports the call for an inquiry?
✔ Survivors and campaigners
✔ Local councillors (all parties)
✔ Some British Pakistani Muslim leaders
✔ National politicians, including Andy Burnham
5. What happens if the government rejects the request?
If the government refuses, Oldham Council and campaigners may take legal action or seek alternative ways to investigate past failings.
