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Sir Keir Starmer issued a stark warning to far-right thugs rioting in British towns and cities with a warning that they will face swift justice and “the full force of the law”.
In a uncompromising statement to the nation, the minister told those behind the appalling scenes in Hull, Halifax, Liverpool, London, Southport and Rotherham: “You will regret it”.
It came as a violent mob stormed a hotel full of asylum seekers waiting for their applications to be heard in Rotherham and set fire to it knowing people were inside.
As police kettled the mob in a stand-off outside, Sir Keir said that they “are not protesters” and made it clear that their racist behaviour “will not be tolerated.”
The prime minister said: said: “Be in no doubt, those that have participated in this violence will face the full force of the law.
“The police will be making arrests. Individuals will be held on remand, charges will follow and convictions will follow.
“I guarantee you will regret taking part in this disorder, whether directly or those whipping up this action online and then running away themselves.
“This is not a protest, it is organised, violent thuggery and it has no place on our streets or online.”
More to follow…
