Grooming gangs inquiry to examine ethnicity, culture and religion in Oldham
The statutory independent grooming gangs inquiry will examine whether ethnicity, culture or religion influenced offending and institutional response. Oldham has been confirmed among the first areas for local investigation. The inquiry, chaired by Baroness Anne Longfield, will have legal powers to compel witnesses and require documents. It will conduct local investigations where serious failures have been identified in response to child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs. The inquiry has a maximum duration of three years, a budget of £65 million, and will publish findings progressively rather than waiting for a final report.