A tense exchange unfolded on live television when journalist Emily Maitlis challenged Reform MP Rupert Lowe over his comments about grooming gangs and their links to specific communities.

Maitlis questioned whether Lowe’s language risked inflaming racial tensions and accused him of oversimplifying a complex and deeply sensitive issue. Lowe rejected the claim, insisting that his remarks were based on official crime statistics and that confronting uncomfortable data was essential to delivering justice for victims.

The discussion quickly shifted from politics to responsibility — with Maitlis arguing that crime must be reported carefully to avoid stigmatising entire communities, while Lowe maintained that public debate should not avoid difficult facts if it helps protect vulnerable children.

Both sides agreed on one point: victims must remain at the centre of the conversation.

The interview has since sparked widespread reaction online, highlighting the growing divide over how the media and politicians should discuss grooming gang cases in the UK.