New Grooming Gangs Scandal Erupts in Another Part of UK, By David Williamson (UK “Express”)

Survivors of grooming gangs in Wales feel "overlooked and ignored" with the long-awaited inquiry's investigations focused on English areas, the leader of the Welsh Conservatives has warned. Plaid Cymru and Labour, its predecessor in power in the Welsh Government, are accused of refusing to "back the comprehensive investigation that victims deserve".

Welsh Tory leader Darren Millar pressed for action, saying: "We know that child sexual exploitation has been happening in Wales because brave survivors have come forward to tell their stories."

He wants the Welsh Government to commission its own inquiry if the one chaired by Baroness Anne Longfield treats Wales as an "afterthought".

Mr Millar said he spoke to one survivor who described "how she was groomed, trafficked and raped more than 1,000 times".

He said: "She has shown extraordinary courage in sharing her experience. Wales owes it to her, and to every other victim, to ensure the truth is fully uncovered."

The Senedd member is disappointed that the areas chosen by the Statutory Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs for local investigations are all in England – Bradford and Keighley, London and Oldham.

He said: "Not one of the local investigations announced by the inquiry to date is located here in Wales. And that decision is leaving survivors here feeling overlooked and ignored, and struggling to understand why they will need to wait longer for answers. Rather than standing up for Welsh victims and pressing for Wales to be included, the new Plaid Cymru Government appears to have simply accepted that decision. I do not believe that is good enough."

Adamant that abuses on the Welsh side. of the border must not be ignored, he said: "Grooming gangs have operated in Wales, in cities, in towns, and in rural areas. There are victims, perpetrators, and those who could have done more to protect people. Serious questions need answering. People need to be held to account. And victims deserve justice."

https://www.express.co.uk/news/politics/2228040/grooming-gang-survivors-feel-overlooked