Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer was welcomed to the West Midlands this week where he met with police officers who have been working to protect and reassure communities throughout the recent days.

During the meeting with Chief Constable Craig Guildford, the Prime Minister thanked the force for the national role it has played in supporting other forces during the recent disorder.

He also praised the efforts of WMP officers and staff across all ranks and roles for the reassurance they have offered to communities across the West Midlands, and in particular the Muslim communities.

During the visit to Solihull, Sir Keir received an operational briefing from the force’s Chief Constable and commanders in relation to the force’s response to the protest activity.

He went on to meet local community leaders and officers who are working in a variety of roles to engage with communities, investigate offences committed during recent incidents and bring those offenders to justice. These efforts have already resulted in arrests linked to disorder in Birmingham earlier in the week.

Chief Constable Craig Guildford said: “I am grateful that the Prime Minister took the time to meet with myself and officers who have been working hard during the recent challenging days to reassure people who have been concerned and intimidated by the recent disorder they have watched take place across the country.

“It was pleasing to hear the Prime Minister acknowledging the need to bring communities together and reassuring to hear his underlying commitment to bolster neighbourhood policing so we can continue to build the vitally important relationships we need with local communities to best keep them safe.”