Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned the violent rioting that erupted in Southampton on Tuesday night, as well as Nigel Farage's controversial response to the murder of 14-year-old Henry Nowak. Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions, Starmer emphasized that this is 'a time for serious work, not rage' and described the Reform UK leader's claims of 'two-tier policing' as 'unforgivable'.
Starmer's Remarks on the Riots
Starmer expressed his outrage over the unrest in Southampton, which saw clashes between protesters and police. He stated that such violence has no place in society and urged calm and unity. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of allowing law enforcement to carry out their duties without interference.
Response to Farage's Comments
The Prime Minister also took aim at Nigel Farage for his remarks following the tragic death of Henry Nowak. Farage had suggested that the police response to the murder was influenced by the victim's ethnicity, alleging a 'two-tier policing' system. Starmer called these claims 'unforgivable', noting that Nowak's family had specifically asked for their son's death not to be exploited for political gain. He praised the family for showing 'extraordinary dignity after their son’s life was stolen in appalling circumstances'.
Nowak Family's Appeal
Henry Nowak, a 14-year-old boy, was fatally stabbed in Southampton last week. His family released a statement urging the public and politicians to refrain from using his death to further divisive agendas. They called for respect and privacy as they grieve their loss.
The Prime Minister's comments come amid heightened tensions in the UK, with several far-right demonstrations and counter-protests taking place across the country. Starmer reiterated his commitment to tackling extremism and ensuring justice for victims of violent crime.
