People across the globe are being bombarded with images of the UK riots in international newspapers as well as scenes of looting, violence and lawlessness being flashed across global TV screens. The press both here and abroad have literally been dominated by images of burnt-out buses, cars, buildings and of police in riot gear under constant attack from the rioters. Some international newspapers are blaming the riots on racial violence while others have pointed towards the economic crisis.

There are fears that the current riots will have a damaging effect on the levels of tourism generated from the Olympics with many  fearing that people across the world will choose not to visit Britain and instead watch the Games on TV at home. Industry advisors say that it is now vital that the Government and its agencies, as well as the UK tourism industry, work hard to put things into context.

The rioting, now in its third night, started on Saturday after a peaceful protest in Tottenham over the fatal shooting of a man by police. The riots have now spread across London, and into other parts of the UK including Birmingham, Liverpool, Nottingham and Bristol. At least 400 people have been arrested following a wave of copycat violence. An extra 1,700 police officers were drafted in to help cope with the unrest in London.