Witham’s MP has written to UK leaders urging them to recall parliament as riots and unrest continue. 

In an open letter, Dame Priti Patel addressed PM Keir Starmer, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Leader of the House of Commons Lucy Powell. 

She said: “The violent disorder we have witnessed in towns and cities across our country in recent days has been unacceptable and shocking.” 

She said communities had faced “appalling levels of violent disorder” following the tragic events in Southport, where three young girls were killed. 

Dame Priti said the events have been "hijacked by misinformation, violence and those with divisive and racist agendas”. 

“The people of Southport have shown dignity in these difficult times as their community and their grief has been invaded by those with ulterior and dangerous motives,” she said. 

The MP, who is standing in the Conservative leadership contest, also paid tribute to the community coming together after the riots and the police trying to maintain order. 

“From working with the police and other partners in relation to previous disorder incidents during my time as Home Secretary, I know the challenges that you and your ministers will be facing at this time," she said.

"It is vital that the Government stays on the front foot and maintains control over events and preparations to pre-empt and respond to disorder. 

“That is precisely why as Home Secretary I brought forward much stronger protections against disproportionate protest and disorder, in the teeth of fierce opposition. 

“But it was the right thing to do and those powers must be used to their maximal extent now.

“Now it's a moment for national reflection and solidarity – to pull back from the wave of violence we have seen, to call it out for what it is – without fear or favour – and for Parliament to speak with one voice in condemnation. We either believe in the rule of law, or we do not. 

“That is why the House of Commons must be recalled.” 

In her letter, Mrs Patel called for courts being enabled to sit for 24 hours to deal with cases and increasing police mobility by cancelling leave if necessary and financial support for injured officers. 

She also suggested excluding offenders of racially aggravated offences from the early release scheme and the Crown Prosecution Service to pursue compensation as part of the sentencing.