Skip to main content
Regional secretary with the National Education Union
We cannot close our eyes to the causes of these riots
While far-right elements must be identified, isolated and opposed, a law and order response won't address the social conditions fuelling the unrest in Britain's forgotten communities, writes JACK MORRISS
A youth aims a fence post towards police during an anti-immigration demonstration near the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, August 4, 2024

DESCRIPTIONS of mindless violence and criminal thuggery give the impression that the riots have come out of nowhere or are the sole outcome of fascist agitation.

There can be no doubt that a loose set of neofascist actors either by physical organisation on the ground or via online encouragement through popular apps like Telegram have played a significant role.

The attempt to set fire to a hotel housing asylum-seekers in Rotherham which was still occupied at the time of the attack could be viewed as arson with intent to endanger life.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
MASS TURNOUT: Anti-racism protesters during a march in Birmi
Features / 26 August 2024
26 August 2024
The shortsighted moves of out-of-touch politicians put in jeopardy the great traditions of dissent that have long been a hallmark of this country, argue DAVID MORGAN and ESTELLA SCHMID
Objects are thrown during an anti-immigration protest outsid
Editorial: / 4 August 2024
4 August 2024