He was already IN UK, so why drag him across the country into the London area? Why did they not do the same with the SAS flight who lost contact (a different tread in R&R)?
Unless the PIA flight is actually hijacked, that would certainly change the picture.
Because this isn't a lost comms issue, I have read on other sites that comms were in use at all times, the pilots were in contact with the typhoons and were told by them to divert to Stansted.
It's there because this is something more than normal, and Stansted is equipped with the best anti-incident staff/equipment for the whole UK, including an incident apron that is isolated from other buildings and aircraft.
I've just heard that on BBC this is regarding a, "threat", by individuals onboard. I would play safe than sorry if I was the government/MoD and immediately divert it to an isolated place than a busy Manchester airport that has no preparation for this.