Health Secretary Wes Streeting has criticised tech billionaire Elon Musk for his recent remarks on the UK government’s handling of grooming gangs, describing them as “misjudged and certainly misinformed.”
Musk, who owns the social media platform X, accused Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer of failing to prosecute gangs involved in child sexual exploitation during his time as director of public prosecutions (DPP). Musk also controversially called for safeguarding minister Jess Phillips to be jailed over her rejection of a public inquiry into grooming gangs in Oldham.
Speaking during a visit to a care home in Carlisle on Friday, Streeting defended the government’s approach, emphasising its commitment to tackling child sexual abuse.
“This government takes the issue of child sexual exploitation incredibly seriously,” he said, adding that Labour is focused on implementing the recommendations of the 2022 Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA).
Streeting extended an olive branch to Musk, inviting him to “roll up his sleeves and work with us” to address the issue. “If he wants to work with us, we’d welcome that,” he said, suggesting that Musk could use his platform to support efforts to combat exploitation.
Musk’s comments have drawn criticism from both Labour and the Conservatives. Alicia Kearns, the Conservative safeguarding spokesperson, accused Musk of spreading misinformation and distracting from the survivors of grooming gangs. She also criticized his apparent support for far-right figures, such as Tommy Robinson, calling it “dangerous.”
The Conservatives have also distanced themselves from Musk’s call for Jess Phillips to be jailed, labeling his claims “factually inaccurate.” Tory leader Kemi Badenoch reiterated her support for a national public inquiry into grooming gangs but warned against politicising the issue.
Labour ministers, including Andrew Gwynne, have also questioned Musk’s involvement in UK politics. Speaking to LBC Radio, Gwynne suggested Musk should “focus on US politics,” where he is set to advise President-elect Donald Trump.
Police data from 2023 reveals that group-based child sexual abuse accounts for 3.7% of all reported sexual offences against children, with 17% involving grooming gangs. Institutions such as schools, clubs, and religious organisations account for 9%, while family-based abuse makes up 26%.
The IICSA, which published its final report in 2022, described child sexual abuse as an “epidemic” and urged the government to implement its 20 recommendations. However, Professor Alexis Jay, who chaired the inquiry, expressed frustration over the lack of progress, stating, “It doesn’t need more consultation or research; it just needs to be done.”
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage revealed that Musk is in discussions about donating to his party, following a meeting at Donald Trump’s Florida retreat. The association has further fueled concerns about Musk’s involvement in UK politics and his influence on public discourse.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham warned against politicising the issue, emphasizing the importance of addressing grooming gangs “fully and unflinchingly.” Burnham highlighted local efforts to tackle exploitation in areas like Oldham, Rochdale, and Manchester.
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