A WIRRAL MP has spoken out against the “terrible events” that took place outside a hotel where asylum seekers were staying on Friday evening (February 10).

A police Matrix van was set on fire after missiles were thrown during a shocking disturbance outside the Suites Hotel in Knowsley which provides refuge for asylum seekers.

Shocking footage posted on social media showed rioters gathered outside the hotel and the police van engulfed by flames.

Officers in Knowsley were dealing with two groups of protesters after a demonstration descended into chaos outside the hotel on Ribblers Lane.

READ: Police van torched during disturbance near hotel in Knowsley

In a statement, Mick Whitley, Birkenhead MP, said “we must be resolute in confronting the organised far-right, reaching out to those who feel alienated and powerless, and building unity within our communities.”

Wirral Globe: Riots took place outside a hotel in KnowsleyRiots took place outside a hotel in Knowsley (Image: PA)

Posting on social media, the Labour MP, said: “Like many people, I have spent the last few days reflecting on the terrible scenes that took place outside the Suites Hotel in Knowsley on Friday.

 “I echo my friend and colleague George Howarth, the Member of Parliament for Knowsley, in saying the actions of rioters who sought to terrorise refugees do not represent our communities’ values.

“Merseyside has a long history of providing sanctuary to those in need and we are right to pride ourselves on our generosity and hospitality. But the events of Friday night must also serve as a reminder of the potency of the far-right’s tactics of sowing hatred and division.

“The scapegoating of refugees can prove to be dangerously alluring in many of our poorest communities, ravaged by years of austerity and government neglect.

“We must be more resolute than ever in seeking to confront the organised far right. But at the same time, we need to reach out to our friends and neighbours, engage meaningfully with all those who feel alienated and disempowered, and build unity within and across our communities.”

He added: “The government is not prepared to accept responsibility for the role that its dangerous rhetoric has played in stoking division, in an increasingly hostile environment for both refugees and migrants, it is not nearly enough for the labour party to meekly follow public opinion.

“In Westminster and across the country, our party must instead take a lead in the national conversation and proudly champion the rights of all those who come to our country to seek safety and the hope of a better life.

“Refugees are welcome here.”

Since the incident, 15 arrests have been made and one man has been charged.

If you have any information, footage or images of the disorder, contact Merseyside Police with reference 23000121093.