I am deeply shocked by the recent lawlessness and rioting. The violence, vandalism and opportunistic looting were disgraceful acts of criminal behaviour. We need to ensure the strongest possible police response to maintain order and restore security to our streets. I have been in close contact with the Borough Commander in the past few days and personally visited the areas affected in Greenwich and Woolwich to inspect the damage.

It is right that Parliament has been recalled and will meet tomorrow, when I will attend the debate about how we ensure public safety and help those people who have lost homes and businesses.