Sources BBC News

LONDON – Health Secretary Wes Streeting has criticized Elon Musk’s comments on grooming gangs, describing them as “misjudged and certainly misinformed.” Musk, the billionaire owner of social media platform X, accused Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer of failing to prosecute grooming gangs during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions. Musk also called for Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips to face imprisonment.

Streeting responded by asserting the government’s firm stance on child sexual exploitation and invited Musk to collaborate in addressing the issue. “We take these matters incredibly seriously and welcome Musk’s support if he’s willing to work with us,” Streeting said while visiting a care home in Carlisle.

Labour, according to Streeting, is implementing all recommendations from the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse led by Professor Alexis Jay. Meanwhile, the Conservative Party also criticized Musk for disseminating “factually inaccurate” information.

Musk’s posts have sparked controversy, with some alleging his comments detract from victims’ concerns. Conservative Safeguarding Spokesperson Alicia Kearns accused Musk of amplifying far-right figures like Tommy Robinson and shifting focus away from survivors.

The debate escalated when Musk criticized Jess Phillips for rejecting a Home Office public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, advocating instead for a local investigation. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch reiterated her call for a full national inquiry into the “rape gangs scandal” but distanced herself from Musk’s remarks on Phillips.

Adding fuel to the fire, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage revealed Musk is in discussions about a possible donation to the party following a meeting at Donald Trump’s Florida retreat.