Locals jeer May over deadly fire in London
May is facing criticism for her response to the blaze which engulfed the 24-storey apartment block.
and their homes. Asked repeatedly whether she had misread the public mood, May did not answer directly but said the focus was on providing support to the victims.
“What I’m now absolutely focused on is ensuring that we get that support on the ground,” May said in a BBC Newsnight interview. “Government is making money available, we’re ensuring that we’re going to get to the bottom of what’s happened, we will ensure that people are rehoused. But we need to make sure that that actually happens.”
May on Saturday was due to chair a meeting on the government’s response to the fire. The death toll is expected to rise, as at least 60 people remain unaccounted for. Alongside both police and fire investigations into the blaze, she has promised to set up a public inquiry. She also pledged 5 million pounds of support, housing guarantees and help with access to bank accounts and cash. Those who lost their homes will be rehoused within three weeks, she said. One of her closest allies, Damian Green, defended May on Saturday, adding that a team would go to the area to answer questions from residents. “The Prime Minister is distraught about what has happened,” said Green, who was appointed May’s deputy in the wake of the general election. “We’re all desperately sad, we’re all angry, but of course none of us as angry as those who were directly affected. I absolutely get why they’re angry,” Green said.
While the blaze has prompted an outpouring of generosity, with many people donating provisions and clothes, it has also unleashed rage at the authorities as the charred tower was cast as a deadly symbol of a deeply divided society. Angry protesters chanting “We want justice” stormed their way into the Kensington and Chelsea town hall on Friday.