(MENAFN) Sir Keir Starmer has expressed his support for safeguarding minister Jess Phillips, despite growing calls for her resignation from some abuse survivors involved in the grooming gangs inquiry.

Carly, a fifth survivor (whose name has been withheld for privacy), joins a group of four other survivors who have accused Phillips of "betrayal" following a letter in which Phillips dismissed as "untrue" reports suggesting that the scope of the inquiry could be broadened.

In an interview with the BBC, Carly explained that she still wished to remain part of the inquiry, differing from the four other survivors who have stated they would only return to the investigation if Phillips stepped down as a minister.

Nevertheless, Carly acknowledged that she agreed with the criticisms raised by the group.

The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has reiterated his confidence in Phillips, emphasizing that he still trusts her to oversee the establishment of the inquiry.

The national inquiry, which focuses on the sexual exploitation of children by grooming gangs across England and Wales, was announced by Sir Keir Starmer in June.

He confirmed that the inquiry would have the authority to compel witnesses to testify and would be guided by a panel of survivors, which BBC sources say initially consisted of at least 20 members.

Over the past week, the inquiry has been marked by controversy, with Fiona Goddard and Ellie Reynolds resigning from the survivors panel on Monday.

Two other members, known as "Elizabeth" and "Jess," followed suit and stepped down on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively.

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