Who are the Criminals? (part 2 of 2)

Mark Stone described in digital journal as a “brave reporter for sky news” was asked by a rioter if he was a journalist “No” he replied while filming the event “I live here. I am just astounded at what you are doing” . No question there then. As she continued to hide her face the girl said “We’re getting our taxes back” . Stone replied with unbiased indignation “You are getting your taxes back? What do you mean by that? She replied “cause we pay taxes innit”.

Digital Journal’s report virtually scoffs at the girl because of her response, her language, her class? But of all the comments this one deserved serious consideration? but apparently it was not a question worth considering by “brave reporter” Mark Stone. There was no excited fervour in his voice like that of reporters on the riots of the Arab spring.

Tell me a revolution that does not include what the state believes to be criminal acts and I will pay you hard cash. The high streets of Britain are the frontline of an economic scorch and burn policy and community is simply disenfranchised collateral. The consumer is consumed by their own powerlessness. Where else would the youth riot but the high street? The high street is the public face of politics to the disaffected, not newsnight. That is where rampant consumerism faces its nemesis, the enemy it created - the public and most of all the youth. Why in this environment would there not be riots.

But for those who articulate in a riot of words ( our press, our poets, our news reporters) as others riot on the streets it is our responsibility to look seriously with wisdom more than draconian condemnation. What questions arise from the unfolding events and why now? In light of news International's manipulation of hearts and minds, in light of the bankers who stole money from the working community, in light of the recent corruption at the heart of policing in the heart of community, in the light of a country in a permanent state of war not in our name, in light of lies and tribulation, in light of unemployment and recession and a lack of accountability, in light of asset stripped high streets, in this light asking questions about why these riots are occuring is to love and care for community. And this is what we need from our politicians, our police, our social services and most of all ourselves.