More trouble for grooming gang inquiry as shortlisted chair quits

A national grooming gang inquiry ordered by Keir Starmer is facing further disruption after one of two candidates who had been shortlisted to lead it withdrew from the process.

- Rajeev Syal Home affairs editor

Annie Hudson, a former director of children's services for Lambeth, told survivors yesterday that she no longer wants to be considered after intense media coverage.

Three abuse survivors have also resigned from their roles on the survivor liaison panel, accusing the Home Office and ministers of sidelining them and manipulating the agenda.

Elizabeth, which is not her real name, stepped down yesterday, joining Fiona Goddard and Ellie Reynolds, who quit the inquiry's victims and survivors liaison panel on Monday in protest.

Jess Phillips, the safeguarding minister, has denied claims of a cover-up and insisted the government was "committed to exposing the failures" to tackle "these appalling crimes".

Hudson's decision leaves Jim Gamble, a former head of the Royal Ulster Constabulary special branch in Belfast, as the only known candidate.