PCCs seek reassurances over the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) following resignation of Justice Goddard
PCCs seek reassurances over the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) following resignation of Justice Goddard
Vera Baird QC, PCC for Northumbria and Chair of the APCC has today written to the Home Secretary outlining the concerns of PCCs that the resignation of Justice Goddard as Chair to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) does not derail the vital work of the Inquiry. The Chair in her letter to the Home Secretary;
- Welcomed the Home Secretary’s statement that of the Government’s continued commitment to the Inquiry.
- Welcomed the reassurance provided by the NPCC lead for Child Protection and Abuse Investigations, that work of Operation Hydrant, linked into the Inquiry, will continue as normal.
- Urged the swift appointment of a new Chair to the Inquiry.
- Urged greater engagement with PCCs from Government in tackling CSA and CSE given PCCs responsibilities not only for policing but also for victims.
Chair of the APCC Vera Baird said “PCCs are rightly concerned about the potential impact that Justice Goddard’s resignation might have on the essential work of the Inquiry. Tackling child sexual abuse and supporting the victims and survivors are priorities for PCCS and I have been working closely with PCC colleagues, such as Clive Grunshaw, PCC for Lancashire, not only to ensure that this vital work continues unaffected, but to ensure that Government looks to work more closely with PCCs going forward, given our responsibilities at a local level not just for policing but for victims too.
I welcome the Home Secretary’s statement of her continued commitment to the work of the Inquiry and look forward to a speedy appointment of a new chair so this vital work can be taken forward without further delay.”