Former Home Secretary Priti Patel has criticised Labour for being ‘breathtakingly complacent’ and ‘inadequate’ following riots in Sunderland last night.
Writing on X (Twitter), the Conservative MP called for Parliament to be recalled immediately, stating: “We either believe in the rule of law, or we do not.”
In her full statement, Priti Patel, who is running to be leader of the Conservative Party, wrote:
Sunderland is the latest city to experience devastating riots, as Britain braces for further chaos today following the Southport stabbings. The events we witnessed overnight in Sunderland were totally unacceptable, as they were in Southport earlier this week and in Harehills in Leeds a fortnight ago. We should never excuse or defend disorder, regardless of who is responsible. Violence and thuggery are always unacceptable, with no exceptions.
Politicians from all sides must be willing to stand up and say so. Describing the nation as “braced for disorder” is not only breathtakingly complacent but also troubling and inadequate. The Government now risks appearing to be swept away by events rather than maintaining control.
As Home Secretary, I introduced stronger protections against disproportionate protest and disorder, despite fierce opposition. It was the right thing to do, and those powers must now be used to their fullest extent. This is a moment for national reflection and solidarity – to pull back from the wave of violence, to call it out for what it is without fear or favour, and for Parliament to speak with one voice in condemnation.
We either believe in the rule of law, or we do not. That is why Parliament must be recalled immediately.
Intelligence suggests up to 30 protests are planned across the country this weekend in cities such as London, Leeds, Liverpool, Hull, Nottingham, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, and Manchester. Several counter-protests have also been planned.
Credit to Conservative Post - www.conservativepost.co.uk