UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – The British PM confirmed a judge-led inquiry into the Nottingham attacks will begin soon, ensuring accountability by reviewing agencies’ roles in the case.
The Nottingham attacks will be scrutinized in a judge-led investigation commencing soon, Keir Starmer assured the victims’ families.
What did Keir Starmer announce about the Nottingham attacks inquiry?
During a Number 10 meeting on Wednesday, the prime minister stated that a retired judge would soon lead the inquiry, which will investigate multiple agencies.
He admitted the delay in launching the investigation and vowed to place the bereaved families and survivors at the core of the process.
Keir Starmer reaffirmed his commitment, stating,
“I gave you my word that we would push for a judge-led inquiry. We have looked at the papers … and today I can confirm there will be a judge-led inquiry into this case. More than that, it will be a statutory inquiry.”
He added,
“I’m pleased that we have got that far… At least now we can begin this stage … towards the justice and accountability you so desperately need.”
The prime minister acknowledged that the inquiry requires parliamentary discussion but expressed confidence, “I don’t think there’s anybody that will question an inquiry.”
Who was involved in the Nottingham attacks and what happened?
In June 2023, Nottingham witnessed a deadly attack as Valdo Calocane fatally stabbed Barnaby Webber, Grace O’Malley-Kumar, and Ian Coates, while attempting to murder Wayne Birkett, Marcin Gawronski, and Sharon Miller.
A court sentenced Valdo Calocane to an indefinite hospital order after pleading guilty to manslaughter due to diminished responsibility and attempted murder.
How did the victims’ families react to Keir Starmer’s inquiry announcement?
Sanjoy Kumar, Grace’s father, thanked Keir Starmer for announcing the judge-led inquiry, calling it a meaningful step, “from a father to a father.” He added, “I think that’s what my daughter deserves.”
Emma Webber, mother of Barnaby, after the meeting, told reporters outside Downing Street that it was the first hopeful update in a very long time, adding, “We’re still trying to absorb it.”
She revealed that officials had assured them that the inquiry would be completed within two years.
Ian Coates’s son, James, stated,
“Today is finally a good reason to come to London, to get the promises we were given. It’s about the future, it’s about protecting the public so they don’t have to walk in our shoes.”
What did the NHS report reveal about Calocane’s mental health care?
A report by NHS England found shortcomings in Calocane’s mental health care before the attacks, stating his treatment lacked adequacy and was not always sufficient to meet his needs. It also criticized risk assessments for overlooking the possibility of violent actions resulting from his failure to adhere to medication.
According to the report, Calocane was sectioned four times for mental health treatment. It highlighted his repeated refusal to take medication at home, leading to his discharge to a GP due to limited contact with mental health professionals.
Findings from the document showed that Calocane was permitted to skip long-term antipsychotic medication due to his aversion to needles. The report further stated he did not recognize himself as having a mental health disorder.
How did police handle Calocane’s alleged assaults?
An investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct is underway into Leicestershire police’s handling of alleged assaults by Calocane, which occurred a month before the Nottingham attacks in June 2023.
Officials expect to release the findings and conclusions of the investigation “in the coming weeks.