British Prime Minister David Cameron announced Thursday at an emergency session of parliament that the government would empower police to demand removal of a face veil during future riots. Parliament had been summoned by the prime minister to the unusual day's session in response to the nearly week-long violence that wracked the country.
Cameron also said the government is considering the merits of calling in the army to provide backup support for police who need to move to the “front line” in future riots as well.
In addition, those whose homes or businesses have been damaged in the riots over the past week will be compensated, he said.
Wednesday night was the first calm night since riots swept the nation beginning last Saturday evening. According to the prime minister 1,200 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest, including 888 in London alone. The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported late Wednesday night that 150 people were arrested in clashes with police after protesters hurled objects at the officers in a north London neighborhood.
More are expected to be arrested as well, as police continue to review security tapes on closed circuit video systems.