Home Secretary statement on violence and disorder in Southport

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has released a statement following a night of public disorder in Southport.

Home Secretary statement on public disorder in Southport

This morning when I visited Southport I saw a grieving community pulling together to support each other and care for the families who have lost loved ones in the face of an unspeakable tragedy. I met police officers and emergency service workers who showed incredible bravery in response to yesterday's attack, and are leading an urgent and serious criminal investigation with the support of the community behind them.

So these disgraceful scenes of violence and disorder we are witnessing this evening, with attacks on the Merseyside Police and a local mosque are completely appalling. Those responsible will face the full force of the law.

The community of Southport are reeling from a horrifying ordeal and families are grieving. This violent thuggery, which has overshadowed a peaceful vigil for three little girls, is an insult to the community and to all those who need the space to process what has happened and to heal.

It is appalling that the local police, who have already dealt with extraordinarily difficult circumstances this week, and are undertaking an urgent criminal investigation, should be on the receiving end of violence and abuse.

Our focus must remain on supporting the police in their urgent criminal investigation into yesterday's attack and on supporting the families and community who have faced such tragedy and deserve everyone's prayers tonight.

Yvette Cooper

https://twitter.com/ukhomeoffice/status/1818389554371453196