Chris Mason,Political editor,
Jennifer McKiernan,Political reporterand
Sam Francis,Political reporter
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The search for a new chair of the grooming gang inquiry is expected to take months after the process was thrown into chaos when two leading candidates pulled out.
Sources told the BBC the government would move “as fast as possible” but were looking to “re-engage with the victims and survivors” to get their views on who should lead the inquiry.
It comes after four members quit the inquiry’s survivors panel and called for Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips to resign, accusing her of “betrayal” for denying claims the investigation might be broadened.
Multiple sources have told the BBC the government are determined to keep Phillips in post.
Another five abuse survivors have written to the prime minister to say they will only continue to work with the inquiry if Phillips keeps her job.
There were, originally, 30 people on the panel the BBC understands – more than has been previously reported.
On Wednesday, former head of the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP) Centre Jim Gamble ruled himself out of leading the grooming gang inquiry.
The ex-police officer said political “point-scoring” had created a “highly charged and toxic environment”.
Mr Gambles withdrawal came only a day after ex-Lambeth children’s services director Annie Hudson pulled out following intense media coverage
A government source told the BBC “urgent steps” were being taken “to ensure a new candidate is found”.
“The government will now re-engage with the victims and survivors – to listen to their concerns and take their opinions on the type of person they want to lead the inquiry,” the BBC was told.
We “will move as fast as possible, but must also take the time, likely months, to appoint the right chair,” a source added.
Sir Keir announced a national inquiry into the sexual exploitation of children by grooming gangs in England and Wales in June.
The PM said the inquiry would have the power to compel witnesses to be questioned and would be guided by a panel of surv
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