GB News star Stephen Dixon says the “underlying issues” plaguing Britain must be addressed to halt scenes of unrest.

A third night of violence broke out in England with protesters taking to the streets of Sunderland to clash with police officers.

Stephen condemned the violence, but said politicians must focus on addressing the concerns of Britons.

“You have got to address why people feel like their country is slipping away”, he said.

“You’ve got to do that without condoning racism or Islamophobia. You still have to address why a lot of people in this country are feeling very unhappy.”

Anne Diamond weighed in: “Looting shops and overturning police cars does not achieve that.

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“The only other thing I would say to anyone seriously frightened and thinks, ‘this could happen on my high street’, is that we have lived through eras before where there have been terrible riots and protests.

“It’s often during the summer, when the weather is hot. Tensions over various things like the poll tax. It’s again something caused by an issue that needs to be addressed.”

Eight people have been arrested and three police officers taken to hospital after rioting in Sunderland city centre, police said.

Rioters battled police following a planned protest linked to the Southport knife attack.

Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Helena Barron said in a statement: “We can confirm that three officers were taken to hospital for treatment of injuries.

“One has since been discharged with the other two remaining in hospital for further treatment.

“We also thank our partners for the significant support they have shown throughout the evening.

“Anyone involved in the disorder we have seen can expect to be dealt with robustly – and that action has already begun.

“Eight people have so far been arrested for a range of offences, including violent disorder and burglary.

“A full investigation is now under way to identify anyone else responsible.”

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said those stoking the scenes of disorder “do not represent Britain”.

She posted on X: “Criminals attacking the police & stoking disorder on our streets will pay the price for their violence & thuggery.

“The police have the full backing of Government to take the strongest possible action & ensure they face the full force of the law.”