UK Minister Criticizes Elon Musk’s Involvement in Domestic Politics as “Ill-Informed”

LONDON: A senior UK government official sharply criticized Elon Musk’s recent comments on the nation’s political matters, labeling them as “ill-informed” and “misguided.”

Musk, the tech magnate, had accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of failing to bring justice to “rape gangs” during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions. Musk further criticized Jess Phillips, the minister for the prevention of violence against women and girls, suggesting she “deserves to be in prison” for her refusal to launch a national public inquiry into a child sexual exploitation scandal in Oldham, a town in northern England.

Responding to the controversy, Health Secretary Wes Streeting addressed the matter on ITV News, stating that the government’s stance on child sexual exploitation is unequivocal and taken with the utmost seriousness.

“Some of Musk’s remarks are clearly misjudged and lacking accurate information,” Streeting stated. “However, we are open to collaborating with him, especially given the significant role his social media platform plays in addressing such serious concerns.”

Streeting extended an invitation to Musk, adding, “If he’s willing to roll up his sleeves and help, we’d welcome that partnership.”

The issue of widespread abuse in towns such as Rochdale, Rotherham, and Oldham, which was uncovered over a decade ago, has sparked national debates. Following numerous court cases, dozens of men—primarily of South Asian Muslim descent—were convicted. The victims were predominantly vulnerable, white girls.

Reports on the failures of local police and social services highlighted that, in some instances, officials had overlooked the abuse to avoid appearing prejudiced. This issue has become a rallying point for far-right figures, including extremist Tommy Robinson.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Instagram, like us on Facebook & subscribe to our YouTube Channel, which is updated daily.