Grooming gang row: British MP Rupert Lowe hits back at political opponents for trying to 'demonise' him

MP Rupert Lowe has defended his independent grooming gang inquiry after facing criticism from political opponents, saying efforts to discredit him will not derail attempts to hold offenders and those who enabled them accountable.In a statement posted on X following the publication of the inquiry’s report, Lowe said the investigation would now move into a private prosecution phase aimed at bringing alleged perpetrators and their enablers before the courts.Responding to criticism from figures including Zack Polanski and former Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf, Lowe accused opponents of trying to “demonise” him following the report’s release.Lowe argued that discussion of the issue had been suppressed for years and claimed that fears of being accused of racism contributed to failures to properly address the abuse of vulnerable girls in some communities.In his statement, the Great Yarmouth MP said there was a connection between religion and some of the offences examined. He specifically identified Islam, arguing that politicians should be willing to discuss the issue openly.“There is a clear link between religion and these abhorrent crimes that have stained our nation for so very long. That religion is Islam, and other politicians must finally find the courage to say so,” Lowe said.He also claimed that, for decades, the abuse of vulnerable white girls by gangs involving Pakistani Muslim men had been covered up because authorities and politicians were reluctant to discuss the ethnic and religious backgrounds of some offenders.Lowe said the report’s publication marked the beginning of a new phase of the campaign and insisted that threats, abuse, and intimidation would not deter those involved in the inquiry.“Our aim is to put rapists and their enablers in prison. That is now our objective,” he wrote.The report forms part of Lowe’s wider campaign calling for greater accountability over historical grooming gang cases, enhanced support for victims, and further action against those found to have committed or facilitated abuse.