Sian Astley sets out nine-point plan in Greater Manchester mayoral manifesto

ONGOING STORY — Updated 16 July 2026 at 11:52. 81 source updates have been combined into this article.

There are renewed calls for legal changes to facilitate the deportation of a Rochdale rapist leader, highlighting ongoing concerns about justice and immigration policy.

Latest update

There are renewed calls for legal changes to facilitate the deportation of a Rochdale rapist leader, highlighting ongoing concerns about justice and immigration policy.

The UK government is set to amend immigration laws to enable the deportation of Shabir Ahmed, the leader of a Rochdale grooming gang. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced plans to remove legal barriers preventing his removal following his release from prison earlier this month after serving 14 years for multiple rapes and sexual offences against young girls.

Ahmed, who was convicted in 2012, was released on 2 July after serving 14 years of a 19-year sentence. His release sparked public outcry, as he had been stripped of his British citizenship but could not be deported due to a legal loophole in the 1971 Immigration Act, which protects certain Commonwealth citizens from removal. The government has indicated that Pakistan may face visa restrictions unless it agrees to take Ahmed back.

However, reports suggest that Pakistan is currently refusing to accept him, demanding the extradition of two political dissidents in exchange. This has led to a diplomatic dispute between the two nations, with a senior Pakistani official stating that the UK government is displaying 'arrogance' in its demands.

Earlier developments

As the government seeks to close the loophole in the law, it remains unclear whether Pakistan will cooperate. The situation continues to develop, with the Home Office exploring all available options to facilitate Ahmed's deportation. Anyone with information can find Greater Manchester Police and Crimestoppers contact details at the end of this article.

Reform UK mayoral candidate Sian Astley has outlined a nine-point programme covering policing, transport, migration, housing, greenbelt protection and local government spending ahead of the Greater Manchester mayoral election.

Reform UK candidate Sian Astley has published a manifesto setting out her priorities ahead of the Greater Manchester mayoral election.

The document, which includes a message from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, outlines a nine-point programme focused on policing, transport, local government spending, town-centre regeneration and housing.

Astley is standing against candidates from Labour and other parties in the race to become the next Mayor of Greater Manchester.

The manifesto states that, if elected, Astley would seek to:

The manifesto argues that towns across Greater Manchester, including Rochdale, have not benefited equally from investment and development concentrated in Manchester city centre.

Astley says her campaign is focused on directing greater attention towards town centres, local services and community safety in boroughs outside the city centre.

Update timeline

• 16 July 2026, 11:52: Sian Astley sets out nine-point plan in Greater Manchester mayoral manifesto
• 16 July 2026, 10:27: Pakistan and UK Dispute Over Deportation of Rochdale Rapist