""the rioters showed no understanding and compassion for the people adversely affected by their crimes."

Unlike the politicians and bankers who are the soul of compassion."

By condemning the rioters I am certainly not, in any way, supporting politicians and bankers - and why, Jim, do you automatically assume that I am? The latter have certainly set a very bad example and are, almost certainly, largely responsible for creating the 'greed-is-good' zeitgeist. They, too, have got off lightly (but the rich and powerful always do). If you can think of a way in which these feral, rich scum can be adequately punished (in the real world) I hope that you'll let us know.

Nevertheless, in spite of the relative unfairness and disparity, threatening your neighbour's lives and livelihoods with fire and violence cannot be condoned or encouraged under any circumstances.