Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has welcomed the decision for the National Crime Agency (NCA) to take over the investigation into allegations of child sexual exploitation and abuse involving former officers of South Yorkshire Police (SYP). This follows his recent call for an independent investigation and for the Government’s National Inquiry into Group-Based Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse to explicitly include cases involving police officers accused of misconduct.
In a letter to Julian, Jess Phillips MP, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, confirmed that the NCA will now lead the investigation under the direction and control of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). This move comes in response to concerns about SYP’s involvement in investigating serious allegations against its former officers, and is intended to provide additional reassurance to victims, survivors, and the wider public.
Commenting, Julian said: “I welcome the Government’s decision to ensure the investigation into these deeply disturbing allegations is now being led independently by the NCA. Victims and survivors must have confidence that their cases are being handled with the utmost seriousness and impartiality. I am also pleased that the Government has confirmed the forthcoming National Inquiry will consider the role of police officers in these cases. I will continue to press for full transparency and accountability as these investigations progress.”
The Minister’s letter also confirmed that the Terms of Reference for the National Inquiry are being developed and will take into account the need to analyse allegations of abuse by police officers. The Chair of the Inquiry will play a central role in shaping these Terms, which will be published and subject to consultation, including with victims and survivors.
You can read the Minister's full response here.
