Labour Councillors for Telegraph Hill Ward

Statement from Sir Steve Bullock about events on the evening of 8 August 2011.

‘I condemn these acts of criminal violence which are being carried out by a minority of law breakers. Nothing can justify this behaviour.

‘I am deeply concerned about the impact on individuals and businesses in Lewisham.  Police and other public servants have acted to deal with the issues our city faces but are being stretched to the limit. The Council will do everything it can to support the police and emergency services to protect the law-abiding community in our borough. We must not forget that the vast majority of our young people are decent, hard working individuals who will be appalled by the damage that is being done to our communities.’

Sir Steve Bullock, Mayor of Lewisham

Please see below the statement from our MP, Joan Ruddock.

I left for a holiday Monday morning and was contacted by the Borough Commander that evening as the disturbances happened. We kept in touch late into the night until most of the violence had been contained. I sent a message of support to officers involved.

The incidents in no way reflect on community/police relations in Lewisham which have greatly improved over the last two decades and are generally good.

I am relieved that officers received only minor injuries and I have no reports of civilian injuries.

It is a tragedy that such damage should be done in an area where businesses are struggling and unemployment is high. I'm told by residents that the cleanup has been rapid and effective - a tribute to all involved.

There must be no repeat of such disgraceful behaviour.

My office is fully functional during my absence and we will assist any constituents that seek our help as a result of the disturbances.