Greater Manchester mayoral candidate faces backlash over comments on trans issues
Reform UK’s candidate in the Greater Manchester mayoral race is facing criticism after describing education sessions on the challenges faced by trans people as “indoctrination,” unearthed Facebook posts show, reports BritPanorama.
Sian Astley, who runs a design and property business, criticized what she termed “aggressive transgender ideology,” asserting that it would have “no place” in Greater Manchester if she is elected. Her remarks have drawn condemnation from LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall, which accused her of using trans issues as a “political football” and urged political leaders to work towards creating a “safe and equal world.”
Astley’s comments also sparked a response from the LGBT Foundation, which emphasized that her statements contradict Greater Manchester’s established identity as a “safe and welcoming place for LGBTQ+ people.” In the posts, Astley remarked “it’s great” that Nigel Farage has a £5 million donation, dismissing concerns over the funding’s implications amidst an inquiry into its declaration by parliament’s standards commissioner.
In these posts, she stated, “I don’t care if Nigel Farage was given £5m and is using it to try to keep himself and his family safe for the rest of his life… I have no envy or fury or worry about it.” This statement follows claims that Farage had failed to declare the donation, with possible sanctions looming over him.
Further discussing women’s spaces, Astley declared: “As Mayor, I will always put the safety of women and girls first.” She criticized Labour’s mayoral candidate, Bev Craig, for purportedly supporting trans women’s rights in a manner she believes threatens women’s safety. Astley referenced last year’s Supreme Court ruling as a pivotal moment for the protection of women’s spaces.
Amidst her campaign, Astley has positioned herself strongly against Labour’s current policies, highlighting what she sees as a flaw in their approach to women’s rights. “Under Bev Craig’s leadership, Manchester City Council declared that ‘trans women are women’,” she said, condemning the pressure on councillors to attend sessions regarding trans issues.
Stonewall responded to Astley’s remarks by asserting that using trans people’s lives as a political tool only serves to undermine effective policymaking and shared goals of preventing violence against all women and girls. They reiterated the need for leaders to focus on inclusivity and safety for the entire community.
The LGBT Foundation commented on the importance of Greater Manchester’s reputation for being inclusive, noting that it is deeply rooted in the region’s history. Advocates emphasize that this identity must continue to thrive as a legacy for future generations.
According to Suicide Prevention UK, trans individuals face significant mental health challenges, with 48% reporting suicide attempts. TransLucent’s survey indicates high levels of transphobic harassment experienced among trans individuals. Astley’s previous controversial statements have also included remarks regarding immigrants and crime, generating further debate in the lead-up to the by-election.
The Greater Manchester mayoral by-election, set for July 30, was triggered by Andy Burnham’s recent win in the Makerfield by-election, necessitating his resignation from the mayoral role. Reform UK has been approached for comment.
