Rotherham MP to lead grooming inquiry

The Rotherham MP teamed up with charity Barnardo’s to conduct the investigation into abuse and trafficking.

Evidence will be gathered first from victims of CSE, followed by police, lawyers and statutory and voluntary services in the new year.

Ms Champion said: “It was really important to have a cross party panel because I didn’t want this to become political in any way.

“It’s clear that there’s problem when even if children have the courage to come forward they are not taken seriously.

“But this is a real chance to make a positive difference.”

Author and TV presenter Baroness Floella Benjamin is among the panel for the inquiry. The Play School legend previously ran ten marathons in as many years as part of her support for Barnardo’s.

The charity — marking 30 years in 2014 — is the leading provider of support for exploited young people with 23 UK specialist services.

The finished inquiry report is expected around Easter next year.