During a meeting with government ministers on Saturday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the need to maintain public safety amidst recent violent disorder.
A spokesperson for Starmer relayed that the PM stressed the distinction between freedom of expression and violent behavior, stating that “there is no excuse for violence of any kind.”
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper echoed this sentiment, warning that individuals involved in “unacceptable disorder” would face consequences, including arrests and prosecutions.
Cooper reinforced that “criminal violence and disorder has no place on Britain’s streets” and assured that the police have the government’s full support in addressing such activities.
Cooper noted that some suspects have already been detained, with more arrests anticipated. She highlighted that individuals involved in violence could face “imprisonment and travel bans.” Cooper assured that sufficient prison spaces are available and stressed that everyone has “the right to feel safe.”
Meanwhile, protests and counter-demonstrations have been taking place in various locations across the UK. In Liverpool, clashes erupted near the city’s waterfront, resulting in injuries to two police officers and six arrests.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Simms condemned the violence, stating that the actions of a few do not represent the people of Merseyside and that attempts to sow division in the community would not succeed.
Similar incidents occurred in Manchester, Belfast, and Hull, with reports of scuffles, arrests, and property damage. In Hull, City Hall was put on lockdown due to the unrest while the British Chess Championships were being held inside.