Ministers condemn Conservative attempt to block child wellbeing and schools bill with ‘shameful’ amendment

Cabinet ministers have ramped up attacks on Conservative “bandwagon jumping” over child rape gangs during furious exchanges in the Commons as the government saw off a Tory attempt to force a new inquiry.

Amid continued pressure, No 10 appeared to slightly soften its position on the idea of a second inquiry into grooming gangs, echoing the words of the safeguarding minister, Jess Phillips, in saying Keir Starmer was open to hearing the views of victims.