Manchester council leader steps down after assault caution
By politics.co.uk staff
The leader of Manchester City Council has stepped down temporarily today after being cautioned for assault.
Sir Richard Leese, leader of the Labour council was arrested at his home in Crumpsall in the city on Monday after an allegation of assault, believed to have been made by his teenage step-daughter.
After spending nearly 20 hours in custody he accepted a caution, an admission of guilt, yesterday evening and was released.
Today, a Manchester City Council spokesman said: “Sir Richard Leese has written to Manchester City Council asking for a period of time out from his duties as leader of the council to resolve family issues.
“We respect this decision.
“During this period, his duties will be carried out by the deputy leaders of the council.”
Sir Richard is believed to have struck his step-daughter during a row on Monday evening.
A statement from Greater Manchester Police said: “At 11pm on Monday police were called to a house in Crumpsall, following allegations a 16-year-old girl had been assaulted.
“Police attended and spoke to the girl, who had sustained a very minor injury to her ear.”
