Commission to support communities to build a stronger, safer Greater Manchester

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Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester

An ex-member of the far-right group Combat 18 who has turned his back on hate, the chair of the review into the 2011 riots, and the North West’s former top lawyer are amongst a panel of experts who will form a commission to tackle extremism and promote a stronger, more cohesive Greater Manchester.

Following the Manchester Arena attack in May, Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham announced the review to examine the work being undertaken to confront all forms of violent extremism and build cohesion to ensure residents across Greater Manchester are protected.

Mr Burnham said: “Greater Manchester’s response following the Arena attack was outstanding. Following our darkest hour we came together and showed the world – and each other – that extremists will not win, and that we are stronger than those who seek to divide.

“By setting up this commission, I want to ensure that we don’t lose that tangible sense of togetherness that blossomed in the days and weeks that followed the attack. Defeating extremism in all its forms is one of the greatest challenges our society faces, and it is not going to be easy. It requires us to confront difficult issues, and to hold a mirror up to ourselves in a way that may be painful, but is necessary.

“If anywhere can do this, it is Greater Manchester.”

The commission will be chaired by Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s lead member for young people and social cohesion.

He said: “Defeating terrorism isn’t the job of this commission – it’s the responsibility of us all. But the commission is committed to bringing people together and building a collaborative approach to tackling extremism so that we can make reality our bold ambition of building a stronger, safer and more united Greater Manchester.”

He will be joined on the panel by Councillor Jean Stretton, leader of Oldham Council and GMCA’s lead member for equality, fairness and inclusion. Councillor Stretton will be the commission’s vice chairwoman.

She said: “We want to bring communities together to build a coalition of hope that will bring about real and lasting change. It is a daunting task, but one that I believe we can achieve.”

The commission will meet for the first time in October, and is expected to report back in spring 2018.