PREET KAUR GILL MP RESPONDS TO THE HOME SECRETARY'S STATEMENT ON CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION AND ABUSE

“Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse are the most despicable, appalling crimes, affecting some of the most vulnerable children and young people in our society.

“As a former Children Services Manager in Birmingham, I worked at the front line of protecting vulnerable children in our city for many years. I have uncovered abuse cases and even paedophile rings in my line of my work, and I am proud to have played my part in putting child abusers behind bars.

“Some issues should be above party politics, so I am glad that the new Government has committed to pursuing justice for victims and survivors of Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse who have been badly let down for far too long. 

“It is excellent news that Baroness Casey will be taking forward a rapid review into the scale and nature of grooming gangs offences in this country today because we know that official figures will be a significant underestimate given the vast levels of exploitation and abuse that go unreported and unidentified in some of ours towns and cities. 

“It's important the systems in place for reporting these crimes command the confidence of victims and survivors, and I hope that politicians on all sides of the aisle will support the significant package of measures announced today.”