09 August 2024 , 13:58
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Starmer: police to remain on ’high alert’ heading into the weekend
The prime minister has said the police are to remain on “high alert” as the country heads into the weekend after days of violent disorder and unrest in England and Northern Ireland.
Despite large scale anti-racism protests on Wednesday night appearing to have halted the far-right violence in England, Keir Starmer said: “My message to the police and all of those that are charged with responding to disorder is maintain that high alert.”
The prime minister said he believed the swift processing of rioters in the courts had an deterring effect, telling broadcasters: “I’m absolutely convinced that having the police officers in place these last few days, and the swift justice that has been dispensed in our courts have had a real impact. But we have to stay on high alert going into this weekend because we absolutely have to make sure that our communities are safe and secure and feel safe and secure.”
Starmer met with London’s Met police chief Mark Rowley and Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine at the force’s Lambeth command and control base for a briefing on the police’s response to public disorder.
Asked if the start of the football season would complicate policing at the weekend, the prime minister said: “I think there were a lot of things in the mix this weekend but of course, whatever the challenge, we have to rise to it.
“That’s why I’ve had Cobra meetings, that’s why I’ve been talking to the police today about their plans for the weekend. Yes, football is added into the mix, there are other things in the mix, but our focus has to be absolutely solely on the safety and security of our communities, and that’s exactly where it is.”
Due to a new television deal with Sky Sports, for the first time on the opening weekend 3pm kick-offs on the Championship have all been moved to 12.30pm, and all Saturday’s League One fixtures start at 5.30pm, lengthening the amount of time during the day that police can expect supporters to be travelling.
The prime minister also warned users of social media that it is not “a law free zone”, adding “I think that’s clear from the prosecutions and sentencing. Today we’re due sentencing for online behaviour. That’s a reminder to everyone that whether you’re directly involved or whether you’re remotely involved, you’re culpable, and you will be put before the courts if you’ve broken the law.”