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Donna Jones, Chair of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners and Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, has issued a strong appeal for calm following a surge in violent protests across the UK. The unrest, sparked by the murder of three children in Southport on Tuesday, has escalated alarmingly, resulting in injuries, property damage, and numerous arrests.
In her statement on Saturday, Jones highlighted the gravity of the situation:
“The rioting and civil unrest across the country following the murder of three children in Southport on Tuesday, has escalated to a worrying level. Police officers have been injured, buildings have been targeted because of those living in them or worshipping at them, and police cars and vans set on fire. Millions of pounds of damage have been done, and more than 100 people have been arrested, with many more expected.
“Police stations are burning, police officers’ annual leave has been cancelled, and riot police are dusting off their shields from Land’s End to John O’ Groats. The behaviour of some of those protesting has been extremely violent, highly distressing, and absolutely criminal.
Jones acknowledged that several protests are planned for this weekend, spanning various political and ideological spectrums. The Prime Minister’s announcement of new Violent Crime Units has sparked accusations of two-tier policing, further inflaming protesters who claim to be defending Britain’s sovereignty, and identity, and opposing illegal immigration.
“Burning towns and cities and attacking the police is not the answer, so how do we stop it?” she questioned. “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.
Jones identified three main concerns driving the protests: the desire to protect Britain’s sovereignty, uphold British values, and stop illegal immigration. She drew parallels to the recent anti-immigration sentiment seen in France, suggesting that the UK government needs to address these underlying issues to prevent further unrest.
“The government must acknowledge what is causing this civil unrest to prevent it. Arresting people or creating violent disorder units is treating the symptom and not the cause. The questions these people want to answer are: 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 it’s bitten quickly.
Jones emphasized her commitment to conveying this message to the Prime Minister and Home Secretary, stressing the need for a collaborative approach to end the violence while addressing the concerns of peaceful protesters.
“We all need to work together to stop this mindless criminal behaviour committed by a small number of people while understanding the views of those attending rallies who feel strongly but don’t cause disorder.”
As the country braces for another weekend of protests, Jones’s call for calm and honest dialogue aims to steer the nation towards a resolution that addresses both immediate security concerns and the deeper issues at play.
