On Monday, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced plans to amend the 1971 Immigration Act to facilitate the deportation of Shabir Ahmed, the ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang. This comes after Ahmed, 73, was released from prison last week following a 14-year sentence for 30 child rape offences. The amendment aims to close a loophole that prevents his deportation.
Challenges in Deporting Shabir Ahmed
Despite the proposed changes, the UK government faces significant hurdles. Pakistan has consistently refused to accept Ahmed back, claiming he renounced his citizenship. This refusal complicates the government's efforts to deport him, even after he has been stripped of his British citizenship.
- Shabir Ahmed was sentenced to 22 years, serving 14 years.
- He is 73 years old and has committed multiple child rape offences.
- The UK government disputes Pakistan's claim regarding Ahmed's citizenship renunciation.
According to a government source, negotiations with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) will be crucial in determining whether Ahmed remains in the UK. Earlier this week, a junior Home Office minister suggested that emergency legislation could be considered to expedite the deportation process.
Government Support for Legislative Changes
Former Tory minister Robbie Moore expressed confidence that proposed changes to the law would garner support across Parliament. He emphasized the urgency of bringing forward the legislation to ensure Ahmed's deportation, stating, “When will the minister be bringing forward this legislation, so that we in this House can vote on it and make sure that this individual that has caused heinous crimes across Rochdale is deported?”
