Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hit back at recent social media criticism led by Elon Musk over his government’s approach to tackling child sexual abuse and grooming gangs.
Addressing reporters in Surrey, Starmer condemned the “spreading of lies and misinformation” and accused critics of prioritising personal agendas over justice for victims.
The backlash intensified after Musk publicly called for Starmer and Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips to be jailed, accusing them of mishandling the grooming gang crisis.
Musk also posted messages advocating for the release of far-right figure Tommy Robinson, currently imprisoned for contempt of court.
The Prime Minister did not mince words, stating that those amplifying falsehoods about child abuse cases “are not interested in victims” but rather in their own gain.
He criticised support for Robinson, who he said nearly disrupted a critical trial involving a grooming gang, adding, “That cheerleading for Tommy Robinson is promoting a man who pushes for street violence.”
Defending Phillips, Starmer highlighted her long-standing commitment to safeguarding victims of sexual abuse, calling her contributions “a thousand times more” than what her detractors have done.
He also pointed to his own prosecutorial record, emphasising that as Director of Public Prosecutions, he led the first case against an Asian grooming gang and reformed the legal approach to such crimes.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch joined other politicians in demanding a full-scale national inquiry into grooming gangs, pushing back on Phillips’ assertion that a local investigation in Oldham was sufficient.
In response, Starmer accused his critics of political grandstanding, saying, “I won’t tolerate politicians chasing headlines after 14 years in government without action.”
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, initially supported Musk’s stance, praising him as a “hero,” but later disagreed with Musk’s defense of Robinson.
Musk subsequently withdrew his support for Farage, claiming he “lacks what it takes” to lead Reform UK.
Farage responded firmly, reiterating that Robinson does not represent his party’s values and adding, “I never comprehend principles.”
This clash between prominent political figures and the tech billionaire underscores the heightened tensions surrounding child protection policies, the influence of social media on public discourse, and the growing controversy over far-right rhetoric.
