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# Local MPs split as national inquiry into grooming gangs rejected
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/local-mps-split-as-national-inquiry-into-grooming-gangs-rejected/
- Published: 2025-01-09T10:57:42.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:25:59.000Z
- Description: Local MPs Jack Abbott and Patrick Spencer (inevitably) found themselves on opposite sides of a controversial vote on whether to launch a national inquiry into grooming gangs, as the amendment was (also inevitably) defeated in parliament by 364 votes to 111.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Elected leaders and local democracy, #article, Jack Abbott, Patrick Spencer, #Import 2026-03-16 14:45

**The big picture:** The amendment was attached to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which includes measures to protect children and implement tougher rules around home-schooling. Labour MP for Ipswich Jack Abbott voted against the amendment, while Conservative MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich Patrick Spencer voted in favour.

![Jack Abbott and Patrick Spencer](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1724842335-mp-tracker-1.png)

Jack Abbott and Patrick Spencer found themselves on opposite sides of a controversial vote on whether to launch a national inquiry into grooming gangs

**Behind the vote:** Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer argued that several inquiries had already been conducted into abuse carried out by gangs, suggesting a new probe would delay action for victims. However, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch countered that refusing an inquiry risks fuelling accusations of a "cover up".

**What they're saying:**

- Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips said "nothing is off the table", adding that if victims request a national inquiry through the victims panel, she would consider it.
- A Downing Street spokesman said engagement with victims' groups showed "they do not want to see a national inquiry, they want action taken to deliver justice".
- The Liberal Democrats' education spokesperson Munira Wilson said the amendment would "kill crucial child protection measures".

**The bottom line:** While the amendment's defeat means there will not be a national inquiry into grooming gangs, the underlying Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill - which contains important child protection measures - will now proceed through parliament.

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