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I don’t know what the solution is here. But all sides need to consider whether this manner of conducting business is in the best interests of our country, its people, and of our politics in this increasingly polarised world.

This sort of politicking happens under all govts - Labour did the same things when in opposition.

But is it right that seemingly separate, crucially important issues are tied together, and the opposition can then say govt MPs opposed something they might actually want?

If they’d voted for the amendment, it would not only have not mandated an inquiry - it would have killed many of the broader measures they may well believe in.

Voting against would have meant losing the whip, with no guarantee of an inquiry.

There is a very valid debate to be had on that bill and the measures it contains, particularly around schools (which the Tories also object to).

But the amendment put Labour MPs between a rock and a hard place.

For clarity, the amendment called for (did not mandate by law) a national inquiry into the grooming gang scandal.

Simultaneously, it rejected the govt’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill - legislation reforming education and reforming protections for vulnerable children.

Full story: news.sky.com/story/piers-...

“When those politicians sat in government for 14 long years tweeting, talking, but not doing anything about Now, so desperate for attention that they're amplifying what the far right is saying. So that's what I say about Jess Phillips.”

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“But what I won't tolerate is this discussion and debate based on lies without calling it out. What I won't tolerate is politicians jumping on the bandwagon simply to get attention.

“Not on those who are so desperate for attention that they're prepared to debase themselves and their country. So this government will get on with the job of protecting victims, including child sexual abuse, mandatory reporting, accelerating the processes.

“But when the poison of the far right leads to serious threats to Jess Phillips and others, then in my book a line has been crossed.

“I enjoy the cut and thrust of politics, the robust debate that we must have. But that's got to be based on facts and truth, not on lies.