Keir Starmer Urges Police to Focus on Crime

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has urged police to prioritize combating serious crime over investigating 'non-crime hate incidents', following backlash over Essex Police's inquiry into a tweet by columnist Allison Pearson, which allegedly incited racial hatred. Starmer emphasized that police resources should focus on what matters most to communities, such as theft and criminal damage, rather than 'hurt feelings'. The investigation into Pearson, which involves a deleted tweet purportedly linked to recent protests, has drawn criticism from civil liberties groups and former Conservative leaders. Starmer's comments reflect a growing concern about the police's role in regulating speech and the potential implications for free expression. He affirmed that police decisions would be held accountable while acknowledging the ongoing review of the approach to non-crime incidents. Responses to the police's actions have highlighted a divide regarding the balance between maintaining public order and protecting free speech.