Independent enquiry into child sexual exploitation

Council leader Roger Stone revealed the plans at yesterday’s Town Hall Cabinet Meeting, where he also “unreservedly” apologised to young people let down by the authority.

The panel will be independent of the council and chief executive Martin Kimber will select its members from outside the Rotherham area.

Cllr Stone said: “I know that I speak for us all in condemning unreservedly this vile crime and acknowledging the devastating impact it has on the young victims and those who love and care for them.

“As a council we have reiterated time and time again that the safeguarding of our young people here in Rotherham is our highest priority. We see the exploitation of our young people as a crime that must not be overlooked or forgotten and we will pursue each and every case to ensure that justice is done.  

“For this reason, following detailed discussions with the Chief Executive, I am asking Cabinet to endorse the proposal to commission an independent inquiry into historic child sexual exploitation cases in Rotherham.

“I am asking the chief executive to draft terms of reference, and to identify an appropriate individual or individuals outside the council and outside Rotherham to lead this important piece of work.

“I am also asking him to identify when the review could start, how long it might take and to set out the governance and reporting arrangements.

“The chief executive will bring back a report back to Cabinet at its next meeting on September 18, when we will see the detailed approach and begin what I see as a significant milestone in our fight against the scourge of CSE.”