This afternoon I spoke with people in Peckham following yesterday's terrible riots.  I was joined by Labour Party Leader Ed Miliband, the Leader of Southwark Council Cllr Peter John and local Labour councillors.

People told me they were horrified about what happened last night - seeing looters running through the streets holding plasma TVs and breaking into shops.  

We can't feel that we have to close our businesses at three o'clock and be terrified of being in our home area.  People are worried and they have got to be able to feel safe again.  That is why the police have got a very very important job tonight.

But people are also saying that the young people who have been rioting and looting are not speaking for young people in Peckham.  The majority of young people in Peckham are hard-working, decent people who want to make something of their lives and are respectful of their parents and neighbourhood.

People want to get on with their lives, but there has been massive disruption.  If you need any help or assistance following the terrible riots please don't hesitate to call my helpline on 0207 219 4218 or email me [email protected]