Prime Minister Rishi Sunak claims there is a ‘growing consensus that mob rule is replacing democratic rule’

• BREATHTAKINGLY hypocritical as it was, Rishi Sunak’s impromptu address outside Downing Street last Friday, if taken at face value (a big ask, given the recent noises-off by fellow Conservatives), did identify causes for our collective concern.

Yes, it is unacceptable for our political representatives to live in fear and feel under threat.

Yes, we have a legitimate right to protest and speak freely, but not to engender hate and descend into violence.

Yes, extremist voices are getting louder and gathering support, but we are not under “mob rule”. Not in London, not anywhere in the United Kingdom.

So what to do?

First, acknowledge the risk of heightening societal tensions. Too many people are angry, frightened and insecure.

And have good reason to be. Not just over Gaza, but with the cost of living, failing public services, and general perception of things getting worse with no end in sight.

This demands better leadership that seeks more light, less heat, offering genuine hope for a better future.

Secondly, recognise and resist the siren voices of the right-wing press and news channels; charged emotions of fear and loathing are good for their business but do not improve the quality of our political discourse.

Thirdly, avoid the rabble-rousing ad hominems of George Galloway, Lee Anderson, et al, and engage with the message not the messenger. Even when presented in bad faith, serious issues require reasoned and insightful responses that offer effective rebuttal and or redress.

This forces the hand of bad actors to then genuinely help seek constructive resolution, or be seen as continuing to be part of the problem.

All easier said than done, but we will be sure to get plenty of practice.

In lieu of any credible record of achievement after 14 years in power, and given how desperate the polling figures continue to be for the Tories, we can expect their self-serving and toxically confected culture war distractions to ramp-up and continue through to the general election.

For all our sakes this can’t come soon enough.

JEF SMITH, NW5