Malaysia has become the first country to warn its citizens against visiting the UK as riots continue across the country.
The notice was issued by the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which said it was “closely monitoring the series of protests currently taking place in several parts of the UK, following the stabbing in Southport on 29 July”.
Malaysians have been asked to register their presence with the country's High Commission in London.
The ministry said: “Malaysians residing in or travelling to the UK are advised to stay away from protest areas, remain vigilant and follow the latest updates and guidance provided by local authorities.”
Three young girls were stabbed and killed while attending a dance performance in Southport. Eight other children were seriously injured. Two adults were also left in a critical condition.
False rumors circulated online after the attack about the suspect's background, ethnicity and religion.
Today, riots broke out in Middlesbrough and Rotherham. Hundreds of far-right protesters clashed with police shields at the Cenotaph in Middlesbrough, throwing bricks, cans and pots at officers. One shouted: “This is our shitty country.”
In Middlesbrough, a group of protesters marched through a residential area smashing windows of houses and cars. Racist abuse was also heard.
Following violence in several major British cities, the government has said that thugs who commit crimes on the streets “will pay the price”. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Violence and criminality have no place on Britain's streets”.
Starmer said the police had his “full support” in taking action against “extremists” who are trying to “sow hatred” by intimidating communities as he held emergency talks with ministers over unrest in parts of England.
Police officers have been attacked and injured, and many arrests have been made, with many more promised. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood told ministers that “the entire justice system is ready to deliver convictions as quickly as possible,” a Downing Street spokesman said, which could lead to courts sitting 24 hours a day, as they did during the 2011 riots, according to a report.
