Boroughs in London have been flagged as areas of concern after potential threats of far-right protests in the area.

It comes amid riots across the country after the fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport on July 29. False claims were spread online that the perpetrator was an asylum seeker, but the violence continued even after the lies were proven to be untrue.

Police have been injured, shop windows smashed and hotels housing asylum seekers targeted.

And while the Metropolitan Police has vowed to do everything in its power to “protect London and its communities” – MPs and local councils in London have warned of potential planned demonstrations in some areas.

Walthamstow

Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy discussed rumours circulating of plans to target the area on Wednesday (August 7).

She said: "It sickens me to think that anybody could think that people in Walthamstow would agree with such thuggery. And I know how strongly our community wants to send a message that such behaviour is not welcome here and that we are proud of our diversity in our locality.”

Finchley

Sarah Sackman, MP for Finchley & Golders Green, posted a statement on X suggesting far right groups are planning to target a service helping immigrants in Finchley this week.

The post did not specify a date or time.

She said: "A service helping immigrants in Finchley has been included in a list of targets of far-right groups planning actions this week. This is disgusting."

Harrow

Harrow Council and the Met previously said they were working to verify claims of a planned protest on Wednesday (August 7).

Since then, Harrow West MP Gareth Thomas has urged residents to “remain calm” and claimed there are “no further indications that an EDL (English Defence League) demonstration is going ahead in Harrow”.

Hounslow

Hounslow Council  leader councillor Shantanu Rajawat, said: "We are aware of social media posts and WhatsApp messages which claim a protest is being planned in the borough this week. We are working with the police to verify that claim. If there is any credibility to it, we will work with the police and other partners to prioritise the safety of our communities.”

What is the Met doing?

The Met arrested 100 people following riots in Whitehall last week.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, who is in charge of the capital's policing operation, said the Met "will not hesitate" to arrest more.

DAC Valentine said: “This country is faced with one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade. This is a national critical incident and we will do everything in our power to protect London and its communities.

“We know about the events planned by hateful and divisive groups across the capital tomorrow night. They’ve made their intention to cause disruption and division very clear.

“The scenes of racist, thuggish and criminal behaviour across the country have been deeply shocking. Members of the public and officers have been attacked, many have been injured."

He said none of this will be tolerated on London's streets.

“We will use every power, tactic and tool available to prevent further scenes of disorder," he added.