Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones reacts to protests in Portsmouth overnight

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones, said: “The situation in Portsmouth last night was deeply concerning.

“People have the right to peacefully protest, however some of the behaviour displayed by some protesters was intimidating, in particular those wearing balaclavas.

“This was one of the largest small boats to have arrived in the UK. Portsmouth is not equipped to receive and process people entering the country this way.

“This incident has put pressure on resources, particularly policing. Hundreds of officers have spent hours on the ground holding back crowds instead of attending emergency calls.

“The government needs to ensure the southern coast of Britain is secure to prevent this from happening again.

“This is a concern for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Constabulary and neighbouring police forces.

“I will say the police did an excellent job in keeping this highly unusual situation under control. But this can’t continue, Portsmouth cannot be a destination point for people traffickers.

“Thank you to all of the emergency services who worked tirelessly last night, and this morning, to keep our communities safe.”

ENDS