Cooper promises 'prosecutions' as Starmer slams 'thugs' following nationwide protests

It comes after violent protests across the UK have led to officers being injured as objects such as bricks, chairs and bottles were thrown at police. Cities across the country saw clashes between anti-immigration demonstrators and counter-protesters, with police forming lines with riot shields to keep groups apart.

Now, ministers said that said those engaging in violent disorder across the UK "will pay the price."

A Downing Street spokesperson said: "This afternoon the Prime Minister convened senior Ministers including the Deputy Prime Minister, Home Secretary, Justice Secretary and the Policing Minister to discuss the incidents of public disorder and unrest we have seen in towns and cities in recent days.

"The Prime Minister began by thanking the police who responded to the violence committed by a small minority of thugs in Sunderland last night which injured four officers.

"Addressing the scenes of disorder we have seen today, the Prime Minister set out that the police have our full support to take action against extremists on our streets who are attacking police officers, disrupting local businesses and attempting to sow hate by intimidating communities.

“The Home Secretary updated on the ongoing police response to outbreaks of disorder. She said we will work with them to ensure there are consequences, arrests and prosecutions for those responsible. The Justice Secretary added that already offenders who have committed violence over the last few days have been remanded in custody and the whole justice system is ready to deliver convictions as quickly as possible.

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The spokesperson continued “The Deputy Prime Minister said we are working with local authorities to ensure members of the community who have been targeted by thuggish extremists have the support they need.

“The Prime Minister ended by saying the right to freedom of expression and the violent disorder we have seen are two very different things. He said there is no excuse for violence of any kind and reiterated that the government backs the police to take all necessary action to keep our streets safe."“

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: "Criminal violence and disorder has no place on Britain’s streets.

“We’ve been clear to the police that they have our full backing in taking the strongest possible action against perpetrators, including making sure that there are more prosecutors, there are sufficient prison places and also that the courts stand ready because anyone who engages in this kind of disorder needs to be clear that they will pay the price."

Police with riot shields and mounted officers remained in Liverpool city centre, and the force helicopter circled overhead, but the large group of demonstrators had dispersed.

A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm that roads in the city have now reopened following serious disorder in the city centre this afternoon.

"We would like to thank local residents, motorists, visitors and businesses in the city centre for their patience and understanding."