Reports have emerged Baroness Casey may lead the Grooming Gang Inquiry as well as the Social Care Inquiry, which is due to make its first recommendations in 2026.

Liberal Democrat health spokesperson Helen Morgan said: ‘This is incredibly concerning news for the millions of carers across the UK, who for years have been shamefully neglected. The Government cannot afford to dither and delay - the Casey Commission must wrap up within this year, to ensure reforms are implemented as soon as possible.

‘Ministers must not prioritise one inquiry over the other - it is vital that the Government work to ensure both commissions are completed with a matter of urgency.

‘We cannot fix the NHS without fixing the crisis in our social care system, and Labour have proved time and time again that they aren't treating social care with the seriousness it deserves.

‘Liberal Democrats will speak up for the millions of people missing out on care and the unpaid family carers who are left picking up the pieces of a broken system.'

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: ‘Baroness Casey is a well-respected and independent figure with proven experience in tackling complex social issues, delivering impactful reforms, and driving national strategies. 

‘This is why she has been leading an independent commission into adult social care, while we are been providing a funding boost of more than £4bn to the sector, delivered the biggest uplift to the Carer's Allowance threshold since the 1970s and have launched the first ever Fair Pay Agreement for care workers.

‘Her work will not be compromised by any additional responsibilities she has taken on.'