The Scottish National Party (SNP) has reversed its stance on the need for a public inquiry into grooming gangs, following significant public pressure and allegations of organized sexual abuse. On September 16, Justice Secretary Angela Constance asserted in the Scottish Parliament that there was no evidence warranting such an inquiry. She had referenced Professor Alexis Jay, a leading expert, suggesting that she supported the government’s position. This assertion was later clarified to apply only to England, leading to criticism of Constance’s handling of the situation.
In a notable shift, on September 27, just weeks before the current session of the Scottish Parliament concludes and 71 days ahead of the upcoming elections, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth announced a comprehensive public inquiry into group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation. During her address, she emphasized the government’s commitment to justice, stating, “We will leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice.” Notably, Professor Jay has been appointed to lead this statutory inquiry, alongside a truth project led by John O’Brien, aimed at ensuring the voices of survivors are prioritized.
Critics have suggested that this abrupt policy change is politically motivated, particularly in light of the approaching elections. Concerns regarding grooming gangs are not new; they have been discussed in Scotland for over a decade. Campaigners previously warned that organized sexual abuse was under-researched in the region, especially following revelations from towns like Rotherham in England.
A report by Sky News in 2022 characterized organized child sexual abuse as a “hidden pandemic” in the Central Belt of Scotland, yet no inquiry was initiated at that time. Survivors like ‘Taylor’ and author Holly Alex, whose memoir, I Thought You Cared, recounts her traumatic experiences within the care system, have begun to voice their stories. Their testimonies highlight the systemic failures and neglect that have persisted for years.
Despite these alarming accounts, Scottish ministers previously maintained that the system was functioning effectively. The recent announcement of an inquiry seems to reflect a growing acknowledgment of the issue, particularly as the potential for sexual exploitation to influence the election looms larger.
One of the most vocal advocates for an inquiry, Joani Reid, a Labour MP for East Kilbride, expressed her frustration with the delay in government action. “The SNP has been in government for nearly two decades. Child protection, policing, social work – these are devolved responsibilities. Accountability sits in Edinburgh,” she noted. Reid emphasized that the inquiry must be adequately resourced and genuinely independent, allowing for thorough scrutiny of all involved parties, including police, councils, and civil servants.
While the SNP has now included addressing grooming gangs in their campaign agenda, the broader issues of sexual exploitation and violence against women and girls continue to escalate. Recent statistics from Police Scotland reveal a 10 percent rise in sexual crimes, with indecent images of children increasing by 20 percent. Reports of rape and attempted rape are also on the rise, underscoring the urgent need for effective policy reform.
As the inquiry unfolds, it is crucial for the Scottish Government to demonstrate a commitment to meaningful change. Accountability at all levels is essential to ensure that failures in the system are addressed, and reforms are implemented to protect vulnerable populations. The central question remains: will this inquiry lead to safer environments for Scotland’s children? The public and survivors alike are looking for a definitive answer, one that reflects a genuine commitment to safeguarding those most at risk.
