AN asylum seeker who threatened to go on hunger strike until his application was proces-sed has given politicians a reprieve.

Riad Arnaoot, 35, of Oakenhurst Road, Blackburn, had been expected to be granted permanent residence in the UK this year.

But changes in the law mean he could have to wait another eight years before being allowed to stay permanently Palestinian-born Mr Arnaoot has already lived in Lancashire for eight years, but his leave to remain has run out, and a change in the law means he now has to apply for another.

He has held daily vigils outside Blackburn MP Jack Straw's office in Richmond Terrace, has also refused dialysis and medication for his kidney failure in protest.

Mr Straw has agreed to negotiate further with the immigration service.

Mr Arnaoot said: "I will give him until Monday to try to get answers, but if I have nothing after that, I will continue with my protest."