London riots: Britain stares into the abyss
By Ian Dunt Follow @IanDunt
Britain was picking up the pieces this morning after the most violent and anarchic evening to hit the capital in recent memory.
As shopkeepers and local communities started the repair work across London and other major cities questions were being asked about the government's response to the crisis.
Demands for water cannons, curfews and a military presence on the streets were made, although the government was focusing on a police-led solution to the disorder.
Hackney MP Dianne Abbot demanded a curfew this evening, a suggestion that startled those familiar with her history of supporting civil liberties.
The England vs Holland friendly, due to take place tomorrow, has been cancelled, as have all other major public events. Police will now be nervously assessing the likelihood of the Notting Hill carnival, set for the end of August, descending into chaos.
A Riotcleanup website has been set up directing those who want to help towards the locations they are most needed.
In a worrying sign that the disorder has quickly spread from the capital, there was sustained unrest in Birmingham, Liverpool, Britol and Nottingham overnight.
About 100 people were arrested in Birmingham, after gangs of young people swept through the city's retail area. There were several assaults across the city.
Police were battered with golf clubs and makeshift weapons in Liverpool, where several cars were set alight.
But London again faced the brunt of the carnage, with more fires around the city than at any time since the Blitz.
Hackney was the focal point of much of the violence, with a council estate falling into gang control for a sustained period.
The chaos was so sporadic and extensive that observers struggled to get a grip on events as they unfolded.
As politics.co.uk reported from the streets, one police officer could be heard telling his colleague they had been "chasing shadows" all evening.
In Brent, three people have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
A police officer was injured when a car was driven into him as he tried to stop looting.
Ealing, Enfield, Croydon and Clapham all saw looting, arson and mass acts of violence. Journalists across London reported beatings after the mob turned on them and tried to destroy their recording equipment.
The Met says 334 people have now been arrested. In Birmingham, another 100 have been arrested. Police raids are taking place across the capital today.
