Senedd to debate calls for Wales-wide grooming gang inquiry

 

The Welsh Conservatives are urging the Welsh Government to commission an independent inquiry into child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs.

The call comes ahead of a debate in the Senedd today, where politicians will discuss the scale of the problem across Wales and whether a formal investigation is needed.

Campaigner and survivor Emily Vaughn, who has spoken publicly about her experience of being trafficked and exploited by gangs in Wales, has been a key voice in the push for an inquiry.

Her petition calling on the Welsh Government to investigate has gathered over 1,400 signatures.

“I was the victim of sexual exploitation by grooming gangs, and I know that this practice is more prevalent than the authorities acknowledged,” said Ms Vaughn.

“I believe the Welsh Government should undertake an inquiry to see how widespread the problem is and to support victims in Wales.”

“Leave no stone unturned”

Welsh Conservative Leader Darren Millar MS said an inquiry is essential to ensure victims are heard and protected.

“There is clear and concerning evidence of the sexual exploitation of young girls by grooming gangs here in Wales, but what we don’t know is the full extent of the problem.

“We owe it to brave victims to leave no stone unturned in investigating this problem and bringing the evil perpetrators of such crimes to account. Only a Wales-wide inquiry will ensure sufficient attention and focus is given to this issue, and that our children can be protected from predatory behaviour.”

Mr Millar emphasised the need for cross-party support, urging politicians to put aside party politics for the sake of victims.

Concerns over insufficient focus

The call for an inquiry follows troubling reports of grooming gang activity in Swansea and elsewhere in Wales.

Campaigners argue that assurances from local authorities and police that grooming gangs are not operating in certain areas are insufficient.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Secretary for Social Justice, Altaf Hussain MS, said the Senedd debate represents a vital opportunity to protect vulnerable children.

“We are all obligated under international law to tackle sexual violence and domestic abuse. Politicians must come together to support the boys and girls preyed upon by grooming gangs.

“Today I look forward to opening our vitally important debate, calling on the Welsh Government to commission an independent inquiry into child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs.”

Survivors leading the call for change

Ms Vaughn’s petition and testimony have helped bring public attention to an issue that campaigners say remains underreported.

The motion to be debated today reads:

“To propose that the Senedd calls on the Welsh Government to commission an independent inquiry into child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs.”

The debate is scheduled to begin at 5.20pm and can be watched online.

For those wishing to support Emily Vaughn’s campaign, her petition remains open for signatures, https://petitions.senedd.wales/petitions/246484