Labour call for Rotherham Police and Crime Commissioner to step down

A Labour Party spokesperson has said the Shaun Wright should resign as South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).

Wright, who is Labour’s PCC, was previously a councillor on Rotherham council and  between 2005-2010 was head of children’s services. In response to a report on child abuse in the area, which found that between 1997 and 2013 1,400 children were subjected to sexual exploitation in Rotherham, Labour have called for Wright to stand down.

A spokesperson reportedly told PoliticsHome: “The report into child abuse in Rotherham was devastating in its findings. Vulnerable children were repeatedly abused and then let down. In the light of this report, it is appropriate that South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Shaun Wright should step down.” 

Meanwhile, Chris Bryant, shadow welfare minister has said: “I think that everybody who is involved in council offices as well as councillors need to consider their position but most importantly Shaun [Wright] I think should sit down and have a very long think to himself again this afternoon.”

And Sarah Champion, Labour MP for Rotherham, has taken to Twitter to call for Wright’s resignation:

Wright has offered his apologies, saying “My message is, from my perspective I am very sorry for any abuse that took place. If I could have prevented it, I would. All I can say is that this is top priority and will remain a top priority as long as remain in this role. I give a pledge and commitment going forward.”

But he has, so far, refused to step down, telling the BBC: “I believe I am the most appropriate person to hold this office at this current time.”

We’ll keep you updated on any further developments.