Child abuse expert pulls out of grooming inquiry over political 'point scoring'

In a surprising turn of events, all survivors who previously stepped away from the grooming gang inquiry have expressed their willingness to return, contingent upon the resignation of Jess Phillips. This development is significant as it highlights the survivors' commitment to seeking justice and accountability, and it raises questions about the leadership and direction of the inquiry. The potential return of these survivors could bring renewed focus and urgency to the investigation, making it a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to address the issues surrounding grooming gangs.

The inquiry into grooming gangs in the UK is facing significant challenges as Jim Gamble, the last candidate for its chair, has withdrawn, citing a lack of trust and political opportunism. This development raises concerns about the inquiry's integrity and effectiveness, especially as survivors seek accountability and justice. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle to address these serious issues within the political landscape.

The family of Sheku Bayoh, who died in police custody in 2015, has accused Scottish police of sabotaging the inquiry into his death following the unexpected resignation of its chair, Lord Bracadale. They claim he was forced out, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the investigation. This situation highlights ongoing issues of police accountability and transparency in Scotland, making it a critical moment for justice and reform.

The ongoing inquiry into grooming gangs has sparked significant political debate, with BBC Chief Political Correspondent Henry Zeffman providing the latest updates and context. This inquiry is crucial as it addresses serious allegations and aims to uncover the truth behind these incidents, impacting public trust and safety.

The inquiry into UK grooming gangs has hit another snag as Jim Gamble, a former police chief and a leading candidate for the chair position, has stepped down. This decision comes in the wake of increasing frustration among survivors regarding how the government is managing the inquiry. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about accountability and the need for a transparent process, making it crucial for the voices of survivors to be heard and respected.

A whistleblower has resigned in protest after an inquiry into the SKA Observatory found no credible evidence of wrongdoing, particularly regarding claims of financial mismanagement. This situation highlights the tensions within the organization and raises questions about accountability and transparency in large international projects. The $3.6 billion SKA project is significant for scientific advancement, making the whistleblower's concerns and subsequent resignation noteworthy for stakeholders and the public.

A new law in the UK aims to protect survivors of rape by denying parental responsibility to sex offenders for children conceived through such acts. This significant change, championed by MP Natalie Fleet, prioritizes the needs of survivors over those of the offenders, marking a crucial step in supporting victims and ensuring their rights are upheld. The amendment to the Victims and Courts Bill is set to be discussed in parliament, highlighting the government's commitment to addressing the needs of survivors.

The chairman of the Sheku Bayoh Inquiry has resigned from his position, just two months after initially refusing to step down. This development is significant as it raises questions about the inquiry's leadership and its ability to address the concerns surrounding the case of Sheku Bayoh, who died in police custody in 2015. The inquiry aims to investigate the circumstances of his death and ensure accountability, making the chairman's role crucial in maintaining public trust.

The organizers of the 'Forever Canadian' petition are excited as they approach the threshold for collecting enough signatures to initiate a vote on Alberta's future within Canada. This initiative reflects a strong sentiment among many Albertans who wish to affirm their place in the country, highlighting the importance of provincial identity and unity in the face of ongoing discussions about autonomy.

Sir Ed Davey has called for Prince Andrew to provide evidence to a select committee inquiry regarding the finances of the Crown, particularly focusing on the lease of the Royal Lodge. This matter is significant as it highlights the ongoing scrutiny of royal expenditures and accountability, which could impact public perception of the monarchy.

The recent layoff of 300 workers at Paccar in Quebec highlights the potential impact of impending U.S. tariffs on Canadian manufacturers. Unifor Québec Director Daniel Cloutier described the situation as a 'wake-up call,' emphasizing that these tariffs could jeopardize the plant's American customer base. This development is significant as it not only affects the livelihoods of the workers but also raises concerns about the broader implications for the manufacturing sector in Canada.

The US has imposed significant sanctions on major Russian oil companies in response to President Putin's refusal to cease hostilities in Ukraine. This move underscores the ongoing tensions between the two nations and highlights the US's commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst the conflict. The sanctions aim to pressure Russia into reconsidering its stance, but they also raise concerns about the potential impact on global oil markets and energy prices. As the situation evolves, the international community is watching closely to see how these measures will affect the war and diplomatic relations.

The U.S. military has intensified its campaign against alleged drug trafficking in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in a recent attack that left two people dead. This operation is significant as it targets a region notorious for cocaine smuggling, highlighting the ongoing battle against drug-related crime and its impact on communities. The escalation of military action raises questions about the effectiveness and consequences of such strategies in curbing drug trafficking.

President Donald Trump has announced plans to tear down the existing structure of the White House East Wing, despite earlier assurances that his ballroom addition would not interfere with the current building. This decision raises questions about the future of the iconic space and its historical significance, as well as the potential impact on the White House's architectural integrity.