Nigel Farage, usually never shy about weighing in on controversial topics, was conspicuously absent from the Commons when Yvette Cooper unveiled Labour’s plans to combat child sexual exploitation.
After defending Elon Musk’s comments on grooming gangs, you’d think Farage would be front and centre. But no, he decided a debate on a fresh general election was more worth his time.
Labour Lays Out Its Plans
During her address, home secretary Yvette Cooper outlined Labour’s actions based on recommendations from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA).
Here’s what’s on the cards:
- Mandatory Reporting of Abuse
Abuse reporting will now be a legal requirement under the crime and policing bill. Finally, no more excuses for looking the other way. - Harsher Punishments for Grooming
Grooming will become an aggravating factor in child sexual offences. Translation? Judges will be able to throw the book even harder at offenders. - Better Data, Better Protection
A core dataset on child abuse and protection will be established. Think of it as Big Data, but for justice.
To ensure survivors have their say, a dedicated victims and survivors panel will also be set up.
Where Was Farage?
Farage, despite being all over the topic on X (formerly Twitter), was noticeably absent. Perhaps he’d used up his outrage quota online, or maybe he’s saving himself for his next viral soundbite. Either way, his absence was glaring.
Instead, Farage attended a debate on holding a fresh general election—a cause he seems to care about more than actually addressing child sexual exploitation.
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