Displaying items by tag: immigration tensions

Keir Starmer has warned his cabinet of growing civil unrest if urgent action isn’t taken to restore Britain’s 'fraying' social cohesion. At a recent cabinet awayday, Starmer and Deputy PM Angela Rayner urged ministers to address the rising tensions caused by rapid immigration, stagnant living standards, and strained public services. The warnings follow violent protests in Essex and last summer’s Southport riots, which were fuelled by anger over crime and asylum policies. Starmer emphasised the need to restore trust and improve integration, while Rayner highlighted the deepening impact of economic insecurity and community isolation. Calls are increasing for a stronger focus on law and order, better housing policy, and support for deprived neighbourhoods. As protest activity increases, including threats of far-right involvement, concerns are mounting about the government's ability to defuse tensions. Ministers acknowledge a need for action to prevent further breakdowns in community resilience and unity. The government is now under pressure to balance national security concerns with addressing widespread social discontent.