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LONDON — A recent Ipsos poll released Thursday reveals a deepening sense of division within British society as public anxiety over extremism and national issues continues to rise.
Conducted between Aug. 9-12, following recent riots and unrest, the poll highlights widespread concerns among Britons regarding extremism, the economy, and public services.
According to the poll, 85% of respondents believe that society is more divided than ever, a sentiment that has remained consistently high since 2021. This figure represents a four-point increase since March, indicating a growing sense of societal fracture.
Concerns about extremism have also intensified, with 74% of respondents expressing worry over the rise of religious extremism in Britain—a significant nine-point increase since March.
Additionally, 73% are concerned about the growth of right-wing extremism, and 59% about left-wing extremism, both of which have seen notable increases.
The recent riots have exacerbated safety concerns, with 84% of respondents worried about the safety of communities affected by the violence. While the police have received support, with 59% of respondents approving of their response, political leaders have faced more criticism. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s handling of the unrest has received mixed reviews, with 39% approving and 29% disapproving, while former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been criticized by 41% of respondents. Social media companies have been overwhelmingly condemned, with 60% of Britons believing they have done a poor job in responding to the riots.
The riots, fueled by false online claims that the suspect in the fatal stabbing of three children in Southport on July 29 was a Muslim asylum seeker, have led to a surge in charges as authorities continue to respond.
Prime Minister Starmer has vowed swift justice for those involved, and the National Police Chiefs’ Council expects more arrests and charges as investigations continue. — Agencies
