Health Secretary Wes Streeting has responded to Elon Musk’s criticism of the UK government’s handling of grooming gangs, describing the tech entrepreneur’s comments as “misjudged and certainly misinformed.”
Musk, using his social media platform X, claimed Sir Keir Starmer failed to prosecute gangs involved in systematic grooming and rape of young girls during his tenure as director of public prosecutions. He also suggested safeguarding minister Jess Phillips should face imprisonment for rejecting a Home Office public inquiry into child exploitation in Oldham, advocating for a local inquiry instead.
Streeting, speaking at a Carlisle care home, emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing Professor Alexis Jay’s independent inquiry recommendations. He extended an invitation to Musk to collaborate on addressing these issues, particularly through his social media platform’s influence.
Conservative figures have distanced themselves from Musk’s statements. Alicia Kearns, Conservative spokesperson on safeguarding, criticized Musk for sharing unverified information and drawing attention away from survivors by “lionizing” controversial figures like Tommy Robinson.
The UK has conducted numerous investigations into organized grooming gangs across regions including Rotherham, Cornwall, Derbyshire, and Bristol. Additional inquiries examined Greater Manchester Police’s handling of historical cases in Manchester, Oldham, and Rochdale.
Health Minister Andrew Gwynne suggested Musk focus on US politics, where he’s expected to advise the Trump administration. Gwynne noted that further inquiries might be unnecessary given existing investigations.
Professor Jay, who led the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse that concluded in 2022, recently expressed frustration that none of her report’s 20 recommendations had been implemented after two years. She emphasized the need for action rather than additional consultation, stating, “It doesn’t need more research or discussion; it just needs to be done.”
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has indicated that, following their meeting at Trump’s Florida retreat, Musk is discussing potential party donations.
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