DEVELOPING: Investigation into Grooming Inquiry Leadership Delayed by Months

Breaking News: Grooming Inquiry Leadership Search Delayed by Months The search for a new chair of the grooming gang inquiry has been thrown into chaos, with sources telling the BBC that the process will take months to complete. This delay comes after two leading candidates pulled out of the running, leaving the inquiry without a leader. The delay is expected to have a significant impact on the investigation, which was already facing criticism from survivors and victims. Four members of the inquiry's survivors panel have quit, accusing Safeguarding Minister Jess Philips of "betrayal" for denying claims that the investigation might be broadened. The inquiry was established to investigate allegations of child grooming and abuse in several UK towns. The original plan was to have a new chair in place by now, but the process has been delayed due to the withdrawal of the two leading candidates. The government has stated that they will move "as fast as possible" to find a new chair, but will also re-engage with victims and survivors to get their views on who should lead the inquiry. Multiple sources have told the BBC that the government is determined to keep Safeguarding Minister Jess Philips in her post. This development is a blow to the survivors and victims who have been waiting for answers and justice. The inquiry's survivors panel has been reduced to just 26 members, down from 30, after four members quit in protest. This is a developing story, with further updates expected in the coming days and weeks. The BBC will continue to provide coverage as more information becomes available.