Starmer’s Early Test: Calm Amid Unrest as UK Awaits Further Protests

Starmer shouldn't declare triumph over rioters yet, as more disturbances may loom

Authorities had alerted about 100 potentially violent protests scheduled for Wednesday evening, yet amidst substantial law enforcement, counter-demonstrators showed up.

Political reporter @MhariAurora

Thursday, August 8, 2024, 10:

This morning, Number 10 is likely feeling a deep sense of relief, as the country wakes up to scenes of community unity and nonviolent demonstrations, rather than the destruction and looting of property.

It seems that Sir Keir Starmer's strategy has been successful.

Prompt detentions, rapid legal proceedings, and the risk of facing terrorism charges.

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This severe punishment evidently served as a deterrent to the rioters, compounded by the presence of substantial numbers of counter-protesters nationwide, which the far-right protesters and rioters would have faced.

The prime minister's previous role as the director of public prosecutions during the 2011 London riots has certainly proven to be a significant benefit to the government's management of the recent unrest.

However, authorities emphasize that the nation still faces challenges ahead.

Today on Sky News, Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson stated, "We have received additional intelligence about activities in the coming days, and we will monitor the developments closely."

Explore further: Stay updated with live coverage of protests. Reports indicate additional demonstrations are expected.

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Evidently, Sir Keir would be cautious about prematurely declaring this a triumph against "far-right thuggery."

If calm prevails on the streets of the UK and the public perceives that justice has been served, as the identities of those involved in the criminal riots are increasingly revealed in the media, then the prime minister might have successfully demonstrated his value to the citizens of Britain.

The recent turmoil presented his initial significant challenge since assuming the role of prime minister a month ago. Based on the events of last evening, either observed or unobserved, he seems to have excelled remarkably in handling the situation.

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Once the initial turmoil subsides, it seems certain that opposition members of parliament will start to scrutinize Labour's handling of the crime as well as the underlying factors and motivations behind the violent disturbances among parts of the British populace.

Currently, those in the running for Conservative leadership are largely backing the government, yet Robert Jenrick's claims that Sir Keir is treating far-right rioters with more leniency compared to "sectarian gangs" seem to be only the initial phase of impending political confrontations.

As the competition for the Conservative Party leadership intensifies and the crucial voting approaches, the candidates might become more aggressive in their efforts to gain the support of Conservative MPs and party members.

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