UK Home Secretary Vows to Combat “Hateful Beliefs”
Sudan Events – Agencies
As part of addressing the “gaps” that make the country vulnerable to hateful activities, UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has vowed to take strict action against those “who promote harmful and hateful beliefs” and to “initiate” a new approach to combating extremism. The British news agency PA Media reported that the UK Home Office has ordered a “rapid analysis” to push forward a practical new approach to counter extremism.
The government stated that the plan will look across the ideological spectrum and address “gaps in the current system” that make the country vulnerable to hateful activities that encourage violence or undermine democracy.
Following riots across England, after three girls were stabbed in Southport, near Manchester, a total of 460 people appeared before magistrates’ courts in relation to the unrest by the end of last Thursday.
Charges have also been brought against at least 72 individuals under the age of 18. Cooper said, “For too long, governments have failed to address the rise of extremism, both online and in our streets, and we have seen an increase in the number of young people being radicalized online.”
She added, “That is why I have ordered the Home Office to conduct a rapid analysis on extremism, monitor extremist trends, and identify any gaps in current policy that need to be addressed to crack down on those who promote harmful beliefs, hatred, and violence.”
The Home Secretary had criticized the previous government for not having a counter-extremism strategy since 2015, stating that the lack of a comprehensive approach or practical plans makes communities less safe.
The unrest began after three girls were stabbed during a dance class in Southport in northwest England, with five children seriously injured. Riots broke out in several cities and towns, leading to the arrest of hundreds.
The police announced that more than 378 people have been arrested since the confrontations began, a number that is expected to increase each day as investigators continue to identify and arrest the rioters.
The riots were sparked by partially debunked misinformation about the religion and origin of Axel Rudakubana, a 17-year-old accused of murder and attempted murder. Officially, it is only known that Rudakubana was born in Wales, while media reports stated that his parents are from Rwanda.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the importance of “accountability” in a conversation with the BBC. She said, “The rioters will pay the price.” She added, “We made sure that the courts are ready, and that there are additional prosecutors available… We expect justice to be swift.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer promised to impose “swift criminal penalties” on those involved in the riots during a press conference after a meeting last week.
