Following the recent riots, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced a review of the police coordination system that was in place.
She acknowledged that while the criminal justice system acted quickly and effectively—resulting in around 1,280 arrests, 800 charges, and 570 court appearances—there were significant issues with the coordination infrastructure.
Upcoming Reviews and Improvements
Cooper outlined a series of upcoming reviews aimed at preventing future disturbances.
One key area of focus will be the National Police Coordination Centre, which was established after the 2011 riots to improve resource sharing among UK forces.
Cooper praised the efforts of the National Police Chiefs’ Council and their public order lead but admitted that the current systems were inadequate.
The reviews will involve HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, the National Police Chiefs’ Council, the College of Policing, and the national lead for public order.
Their goal will be to enhance coordination and intelligence systems and ensure adequate public order policing moving forward.
Addressing Extremism
In addition to reviewing police coordination, there will be a rapid review of extremism in the UK.
Cooper emphasized the need for a robust response to dangerous ideologies that undermine community cohesion and democracy.
She expressed concern that the lack of a comprehensive strategy since 2015 has hindered efforts to tackle both Islamist and far-right extremism.
Opposition Concerns
Shadow Home Secretary James Cleverly responded by questioning the progress on a promise made by Sir Keir Starmer during the riots, which involved creating a standing army of public order police officers.
He also criticized comments made by Home Office minister Jess Phillips, suggesting they might undermine the Government’s credibility and increase risks for police officers.
Cleverly also raised concerns about the perception of bias and questioned whether the Labour leadership’s actions after the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests suggested a differential response to violence.
In defense, Cooper challenged Cleverly’s attempts to blame the Prime Minister for events that occurred four years ago, emphasizing the need to address the current situation.
What’s Next?
As the Government continues to address these issues, the reviews and their outcomes will be crucial in shaping future responses and strategies to maintain public order and address extremism effectively.