Susan Hall Challenges Sadiq Khan at London Assembly Over Handling of Exploitation and Serious Crime
A heated exchange took place at City Hall on Tuesday as Conservative London Assembly member Susan Hall sharply questioned Mayor Sadiq Khan over how City Hall and the Metropolitan Police are addressing serious sexual exploitation and organised abuse in the capital.
During Mayor’s Question Time, Hall accused the Mayor of failing to show sufficient urgency over reports of organised sexual exploitation and historic failures to properly investigate some cases involving vulnerable victims. She referred to earlier comments made by the Mayor in January, in which he appeared to question the basis of claims being raised in the chamber.
Hall said the Mayor’s response at the time had caused distress to victims and survivors, and argued that City Hall should be doing more to acknowledge past shortcomings and ensure that similar failures are not repeated. She pressed the Mayor on what steps are being taken to identify and investigate potential networks involved in serious sexual abuse, and how victims are being supported.
In response, Khan rejected suggestions that he had dismissed the issue. He said that tackling sexual exploitation, child abuse and serious violence remains a priority for the Mayor’s Office and the Metropolitan Police, and pointed to ongoing investigations, specialist units and funding for victim support services.
The Mayor also stressed that operational decisions rest with the police, but said City Hall continues to provide oversight, funding and strategic direction aimed at improving safeguarding and intelligence sharing across London.
The exchange drew strong reactions from Assembly members across the chamber, reflecting wider public concern about historic failures in tackling organised sexual abuse in a number of UK towns and cities, and the need for greater transparency and accountability.
The issue is expected to remain under scrutiny at City Hall as campaigners and Assembly members continue to call for clearer data on investigations, stronger safeguarding measures and improved support for victims across the capital.
