As local public bodies worked tirelessly to ‘reclaim the streets' following riots and civil unrest this week, questions emerged over the extent to which deep-rooted youth disaffection with society contributed to this week's shocking violence.

London's police and councils were discussing plans to tackle a potential fourth night of violence and looting. Authorities away from London were focused on preventing their communities from falling victim to a contagion of youth violence not witnessed since 1981.