Rayner: Concerns Over Migration And Deprivation Need To Be Addressed

Immigration and deprivation are among the main factors causing public disenchantment with politicians and the government that has led to social unrest and rioting, Angela Rayner, the deputy prime minister, has warned.

- Peter Walker

According to an official summary of yesterday's meeting of the cabinet, Rayner, who is leading a wider government project on improving social cohesion, also highlighted the increasing amount of people spending time alone and online as a driver of disturbances.

Asked if Rayner specifically saw increased migration as a particular reason for the riots in England last summer and recent disturbances at hotels that house asylum seekers, Downing Street said it was among "concerns that people have about whether government is acting on their behalf and acting in their interests".

Ministers are concerned about a potential renewed wave of migration and race-based disturbances as the anniversary approaches of the murder of three children at a dance class in Southport that led to riots last summer, with many encouraged by false far-right claims about the attack.