Following news about a review into how child sex exploitation was dealt with in Oldham in the summer of 2013, here’s a report BBC journalist Kevin Fitzpatrick undertook in February 2014 about allegations at the time. This was a complicated matter that required detailed investigation.  His report was broadcast on BBC Radio 5 Live Investigates, BBC Radio Manchester and the BBC Asian network.

BBC Shisha Bars investigation from Feb 2014

Professor Jon Tonge gives his assessment of the challenge facing candidates in the 2020 metro mayor election and explains why he thinks the Conservatives have slipped up not having anyone in place with three months to go.

Politics expert Jon Tonge on the GM Mayoral election

Andy Kelly is standing for GM Mayor in May 2020 and explains why he's challenging the current Labour Mayor Andy Burnham.

Lib Dem Mayoral candidate Andy Kelly

BBC Radio Manchester's learnt that electric car company Tesla considered building its new European factory in Rochdale last year.
Council, Allen Brett, wouldn't confirm the company involved was Tesla but claims the government hadn't supported the bid enough. The government declined to comment.

Rochdale leader Allen Brett on Tesla

Andy Burnham has said he doesn't believe the Salford and Eccles MP, Rebecca Long Bailey, is an anti-semite but that Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer, was right to sack her as Shadow Education Secretary.
Mrs Long Bailey lost her job after sharing an online article.
Some on the left of the party have claimed it was an over-reaction but Mr Burnham, a former Labour minister and shadow minister himself, said Sir Keir couldn't ignore it.

GM Mayor Andy Burnham says it was the right decision to sack Rebecca Long Bailey

GM Mayor Andy Burnham confirms the 'Spatial Framework' housing and development plan will be changed to persuade Stockport councillors to support it.

kevin fitzpatrick