The campaign of racist and Islamophobic violence witnessed in UK towns and cities in recent days has left many members of our diverse community fearful for their safety.

Violent attacks on asylum hotels, places of worship, Black and Asian individuals, public property, and police officers are not a form of protest, as some commentators, politicians, and news sources have mislabelled them.

The unlawful use of violence for far-right political aims is a form of terrorism. We must condemn and reject it as such.

Whilst these rioters are a tiny minority, we cannot be complacent. We must acknowledge that fourteen years of austerity has created fertile ground for far-right propaganda. So too the ownership of our social media platforms and media outlets by unaccountable billionaires.

Media and political elites actively cultivate anti-migrant sentiment to divide and distract people. They seek to redirect justifiable anger around the housing crisis, crumbling public services and falling living standards towards migrants and away from the people in our society with wealth and power. These riots show where such racist and Islamophobic narratives can lead.

In Clapham and Brixton Hill, our community has a distinguished history of anti-racist and anti-fascist campaigning. We will stand united in the face of attempts to divide us through misinformation, hatred and violence.

A national disgrace requires a national response. I would urge the prime minister to recall Parliament so that people can be heard on the national stage.

I am proud to represent a community which welcomes people seeking safety. If there is anything I can do to assist you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.