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Donna Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, is standing by her controversial remarks made on Saturday regarding the violent protests that have swept the United Kingdom following the murders of three girls in Southport.
Speaking on the issue on Sunday, 4th August, Donna Jones stated:
“I want to be clear that the violence that has erupted across the UK this week has been criminal, unlawful, and senseless. I stand by my statement issued yesterday where I called for calm, and for the country to work together to stop this mindless, criminal behaviour. I fully support the police’s response to stem the growth of these riots and those acting outside of the law should expect to feel the full force of it. The violence we have seen has endangered our communities and infected lawful protest on a much broader issue. As a country, this issue is something we should seek to understand without letting it divide us. I am confident there will be a time and place for that discussion in due course.”
In a statement addressing the issue on Saturday, 3rd August, Donna Jones remarked:
“The announcement of the Prime Minister’s new Violent Crime Units has led to an accusation of two-tier policing, which has inflamed protestors who state they are battling to protect Britain’s sovereignty, and identity, and stop illegal immigration. Burning towns and cities and attacking the police is not the answer, so how do we stop it?
“I’ve spoken to people from both sides of the spectrum and the only way to stem the tide of violent disorder, is to acknowledge what is causing it. Whilst the devastating attacks in Southport on Tuesday were a catalyst, the commonality amongst the protest groups appears to be focused on three key areas: the desire to protect Britain’s sovereignty; the need to uphold British values and to do this, stop illegal immigration. The growth of feeling across the country has mirrored (to a lesser extent) the rebellion against illegal immigration that has played out across France over the last 12 months.
“The government must acknowledge what is causing this civil unrest in order to prevent it. Arresting people, or creating violent disorder units, is treating the symptom and not the cause. The questions these people want answering; what is the government’s solution to mass uncontrolled immigration? How is the new Labour government going to uphold and build on British values? This is the biggest challenge facing Sir Keir Starmer’s government, and its bitten quickly.
“We all need to work together to stop this mindless criminal behaviour committed by a small number of people, whilst understanding the views of those attending rallies who feel strongly but don’t cause disorder.”
Donna Jones’ remarks have attracted considerable controversy.
Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley responded by stating:
“Sowing more division and fear isn’t helpful and shouldn’t come out of our PCC’s office. We need to stand together against thugs intent on violence and damage.”
This follows a statement from Labour Police and Crime Commissioners, which reads:
“As Labour Police and Crime Commissioners, we want to be very clear that the statement issued by Donna Jones, the PCC for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight on Saturday, August 3, does not represent our views.
“There is absolutely no excuse or justification for the mindless destruction, vandalism, and violence seen in cities and towns across the country this week. It puts the safety of our police officers and our residents in grave danger, and it is leading to chaos and criminality on our streets. It is not a protest. It is a serious violent disorder, and it is intolerable.
“All those who have taken part in these despicable acts should expect to feel the full force of the law. We have already seen more than 100 arrests across the country and more will follow. The mindless thuggery that we have seen this week stems from a wave of misinformation and lies spread by those seeking to sow division and hate following the unspeakable tragedy which took place in Southport on Monday. These sickening scenes only insult those grieving families and that heartbroken community.
“Our focus as Labour PCCs is to support our police forces to bring this violent disorder to an end, provide care for those affected, and reassure our communities. Now, more than ever, we must stand together.”
