Sir Keir Starmer has called the recent arson attacks an attack on democracy and the values shared in Parliament. He made his first public statement during Prime Minister’s Questions. Starmer said the violence targeted every MP, not just him.
Kemi Badenoch, Conservative leader, condemned the incidents as “completely unacceptable.” She said the entire House stood in unity with Starmer.
Police arrested a 21-year-old man early Tuesday in Sydenham, south-east London. They suspect him of arson with intent to endanger life. Officers requested a court extension to question the suspect until Friday morning. He remains in custody at a central London station.
Scotland Yard confirmed counter-terrorism officers are leading the investigation. They are working quickly to uncover the motive behind the attacks.
Emergency services responded to three separate fires in north London. The first occurred at Starmer’s private home in Kentish Town early Monday. On Sunday, another fire damaged the entrance of a converted flat in Islington. Starmer lived there during the 1990s.
The third incident involved a car fire on the same Kentish Town street. Police believe the vehicle once belonged to the prime minister.
Starmer now lives in Downing Street but still owns the Kentish Town house. That property has been rented out since the 2024 general election.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey supported Starmer during the session. He thanked police and firefighters for their quick response.
Commander Dominic Murphy, who leads the counter-terrorism command, addressed public concern. He encouraged MPs to contact Operation Bridger, the unit dedicated to MP safety.
The police continue their work to identify motives and prevent further incidents. Officers urged the public to remain alert and cooperate with the investigation.
Starmer repeated that the attacks represent an attack on democracy, calling for unity and resilience in response.
For more updates, visit London Pulse News.
