THE Scottish government must “urgently clarify” whether it will launch an inquiry into grooming gangs in Scotland, say Labour.

Confusion has reigned since September, when SNP Justice Secretary Angela Constance told Parliament that Prof Alexis Jay — who works with Scotland’s national child sexual abuse and exploitation strategic group (CSASG) — “does not support further inquiries into child sexual abuse and exploitation.”

A CSASG minute however stated Professor Jay’s comments were on England and Wales and “not related to the debate on the Victims Bill or the position in Scotland.”

Labour justice spokeswoman Pauline McNeill said: “We urgently need clarity on this vitally important issue.

“The justice secretary must provide an explanation as to why she appears to have painted an inaccurate picture of Professor Jay’s views — and, indeed, tell us whether the Scottish government will conduct an inquiry into grooming gangs in Scotland.”

A Scottish government spokesperson said its “absolute priority is protecting children from harm.”

Stating CSASG was “considering previous inquiries,” they added: “Their collective work will ensure informed evidence-based decisions are taken on the need for further independent inquiries or reviews.”