This page publishes the latest news, statements and updates from the Statutory Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs. Updates are listed with the most recent first.
Latest updates
13 April 2026 — Home Secretary formally commences the Inquiry
The Secretary of State for the Home Department, the Rt Hon Shabana Mahmood MP, made a written statement to Parliament formally commencing the Statutory Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs.
In line with section 5 of the Inquiries Act 2005, the setting-up date of the Inquiry is 13 April 2026.
The statement confirmed that the Inquiry will run for no more than three years and have a budget of £65 million. It also confirmed that the criteria for selecting local investigation areas will be published within three months of the formal setting-up date.
Read the Home Secretary’s written statement to Parliament.
31 March 2026 — Terms of Reference published and opening statement delivered
The Terms of Reference for the Statutory Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs were agreed with the Home Secretary and published on 31 March 2026.
On the same day, the Chair of the Inquiry, Baroness Anne Longfield CBE, delivered an opening statement alongside panellists Zoë Billingham CBE and Eleanor Kelly CBE.
A summary of responses to the public consultation on the draft Terms of Reference was also published. This includes feedback from victims and survivors, stakeholders and members of the public. The consultation received over 25,000 responses.
Read the Terms of Reference.
Read the opening statement by the Chair and Panel.
Read the Terms of Reference consultation summary report.
Read the press release: Inquiry formally begins its work.