Rome, Italy, Aug 9, 2011 / 11:51 am
Widespread rioting across England has been condemned by the country’s most senior Catholic cleric.
“The scenes of the last few nights in parts of London and elsewhere are shocking. The criminal violence and theft that have been witnessed are to be condemned,” said Archbishop Vincent Nichols of Westminster in a statement Aug. 9.
“They are a callous disregard for the common good of our society and show how easily basic principles of respect and honesty are cast aside.”
Archbishop Nichols’ comments come as numerous English towns and cities begin a clear-up after another night of rioting, looting and arson. London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Nottingham and Bristol are among the areas most affected by the extreme disorder. Tonight there will be over 16,000 police officers on the streets of London in anticipation of another night of trouble.