Starmer’s emergency plan: Meet rioters with a standing army of police officers

Over 150 people have been arrested over the weekend after, among other things, vandalism and attacks against police officers.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will this week try to cool down an already overheated pressure cooker.

After Monday’s crisis meeting, it is clear that the police will have more tools in their toolbox against the angry protesters, among them many from the far right.

– We will have a standing army of specialized police officers, so that we have enough to handle this, Starmer told the media after the crisis meeting, according to Sky News.

Anger directed at asylum seekers

Several English cities had riot-like scenes throughout the weekend. In both Rotherham and Tamworth, hotels that accommodate asylum seekers were attacked.

The violence has escalated in the days after three girls were stabbed to death in Southport. After the murders, there has been a flood of disinformation and rumor-mongering in social media.

– I guarantee that you will regret having participated, Starmer said in a televised speech on Sunday.

The British Prime Minister came down hard on those who have participated in the protests after Monday’s crisis meeting.

– This is not a protest – it is pure violence and we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or Muslim communities.

24-hour courts

The BBC writes that ministers have proposed having 24-hour courts to conduct trials against rebels quickly. It’s a move Starmer has plenty of experience with from the riots in 2011.

– I myself was part of it in 2011 when I was director of the public prosecution service, and I am determined that we will do everything necessary to bring these thugs to justice as quickly as possible.