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Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse – Interim Report

On 25 April 2018 the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse published its Interim Report [HC 954]. I am pleased to announce that the Government is today publishing its response [Cm 9756].

Tackling the horrors of child sexual abuse is a priority for this Government. I warmly welcome the work of the Inquiry in helping us to understand what has gone wrong in the past and learn lessons for the future. The Interim Report is a significant step in that process. We have responded to all the recommendations directed at Government. These cover: the child migration programme; the civil and criminal justice systems; the health sector; our international obligations; the police; children’s homes; disclosure and barring; and support for victims and survivors.

I am particularly pleased to announce that the Government will establish a scheme to ensure that former child migrants receive a payment as soon as possible in recognition of the fundamentally flawed nature of the historic child migration policy.

I would like to pay tribute to all the victims and survivors who have come forward to share their experiences with the Inquiry and without whom the Inquiry’s work would not be possible.

A copy of the Government’s response will be available on Gov.UK and copies will also be available in the Vote Office.