Reform UK’s candidate in the Greater Manchester mayoral race, Sian Astley, has drawn criticism after describing education sessions on the challenges faced by trans people as “indoctrination,” according to Facebook posts seen by The Independent.
The posts, published on her official page, also included remarks about Nigel Farage’s £5 million donation from Thai-based billionaire Christopher Harborne, currently under parliamentary investigation. Astley stated she had “no envy or fury” over the donation, adding, “It’s great that he got it.”
Backlash from LGBTQ+ organizations
LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall accused Astley of treating trans people as a “political football,” urging political leaders to foster a “safe and equal world.” The LGBT Foundation emphasized Greater Manchester’s history as a “safe and welcoming place for LGBTQ+ people,” noting its legacy of activism and community support.
Astley, a design and property business owner, also asserted that “women’s spaces will always be protected” under her leadership, criticizing Labour’s Bev Craig for supporting the statement that “trans women are women.” She cited last year’s Supreme Court ruling as a defining moment for protecting women’s spaces.
Controversial remarks on immigration and Farage
In previous comments, Astley sparked controversy by stating that Green voters and “uniparty” MPs should house “illegal criminals, rapists and economic chancers.” She also defended Farage, saying she understood why he needed protection from “the insanity of the far left.”
The Greater Manchester mayoral by-election is scheduled for July 30, following Andy Burnham’s resignation after winning the Makerfield by-election. Parliament’s standards commissioner is investigating Farage’s undeclared donation, which could result in sanctions if rules were breached.
Statistics from Suicide Prevention UK and TransLucent highlight the challenges faced by trans individuals, with 48% of trans people in the UK attempting suicide and 85% of trans women reporting transphobic street harassment.
