Keir Starmer has called for calm after violent scenes in Belfast, describing the rioting and arson as 'completely unjustified.' The Prime Minister condemned the attack that sparked the unrest and vowed to restore order. Speaking at PMQs, he said: 'People are rightly sickened by the horrific attack on Monday night in north Belfast... But the acts of violence and arson that followed are totally unjustified.' He added: 'We will crack down on anyone who is fuelling this division.'
Security Minister Condemns Targeting of Ethnic Minorities
Security Minister Dan Jarvis expressed outrage at reports that ethnic minorities were targeted, calling it 'sickening.' Labour Party chair Anna Turley accused Elon Musk and other 'bad faith actors' online of stoking the protests. She stated: 'We've seen children and families having to leave their homes. The situation was absolutely horrific. But we must let the police and justice system take its course.'
Border Security Under Scrutiny
The attack has highlighted border arrangements between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Suspect Hadi Alodid entered the province via the Irish border by bus in February 2023, having flown to Dublin from Paris. He claimed asylum and was granted leave to remain until 2028. Turley warned that the Common Travel Area must not be a 'back route' for asylum seekers. TUV MP Jim Allister claimed the current system has a 'deadly impact,' while SDLP leader Claire Hanna accused those calling for a hard border of exploiting fears.
