King Charles asks for daily updates on riots gripping streets of Britain

The monarch has a long record of convening interfaith meetings as part of his long-term work to unify different communities.

It comes as thousands of specialist police have been mobilised on Wednesday night amid fears of at least 100 protests and 30 counter-protests around the UK.

During the summer riots in 2011, Queen Elizabeth II did not issue a public message calling for calm, and His Majesty has so far not spoken publicly about the civil unrest.

Following the attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport last week, the King said he and Queen Camilla were "profoundly shocked" to hear of the "utterly horrific incident".

He added: “We send our most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives, and to all those affected by this truly appalling attack.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has delivered a stern warning to those causing the "violent disorder" on Britain's streets and said that justice is being served.

Buckingham Palace is understood to be continuing regular contact with the UK Government, as usual.

Misinformation about the suspect involved in the fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport last week was spread online, resulting in riots across the country.

Incorrect rumours that the attacker was an asylum seeker who had arrived by boat were circulating on social media.

However, UK police later confirmed that the 17-year-old suspect, Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, was born in Cardiff.

They also took the unusual step of naming him despite being under 18.

Many British businesses have chosen to shut early on Wednesday, fearing that the gatherings may descend into serious violence.

A list of immigration solicitors' firms and advice agencies was shared in chat groups as possible targets, with the message telling people to "mask up".

The Prime Minister and senior police officers have warned the full force of the law will be used to swiftly punish any offenders.

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Starmer, who last night delivered another address following an emergency Cobra meeting, is facing more pressure to deal with riots engulfing major cities.

The Prime Minister responded to the "far-right thuggery" immediately, preparing a "standing army" and offering emergency security to mosques.

More than 400 rioters have so far been arrested and dozens of police officers were left injured.

Balaclava-wearing rioters even hurled bricks and fire extinguishers at officers.