A police chief who came under fire for her views on the ongoing protests has issued a new statement.

Donna Jones, police and crime commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, has described the violence seen across the UK as “unlawful and senseless”.

Protests have erupted into riots following the stabbing of three young girls in Southport last week.

Ms Jones added that she “fully supports” the police’s response and those acting outside of the law “should expect to feel the full force of it”.

But she stands firm by her previous statement, where she said “arresting people” is “treating the symptom and not the cause.”

She said in her temporarily deleted and later amended statement on Saturday: "The questions these people want answering; what is the government's solution to mass uncontrolled immigration?

"How are the new Labour government going to uphold and build on British values?”

READ MORE: Top police chief under fire for saying protestors are 'upholding British values'

This prompted calls to quit from opponents who accuse of her attempting to justify rioting, including some MPs in the county.

Liz Jarvis, Liberal Democrat MP for Eastleigh, said: “Far from appealing for calm, the statement by Hampshire PCC Donna Jones attempting to justify the criminality we have seen across the UK this week is divisive, inflammatory and grossly irresponsible.

“Her position is clearly untenable.”

Ms Jones’ statement was described as “deeply concerning” by Steve Wright, vice president of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

In a letter to the PCC, Mr Wright said her remarks are “alarming and completely unacceptable”.

He said: “As a representative of firefighters who are called upon to attend incidents sparked by civil unrest, I am deeply concerned by your recent statements.

“The violence and criminal behaviour witnessed cannot be justified or excused under any circumstances. It is our duty as public servants to unequivocally condemn such acts and work towards restoring peace and order in our communities.

“As someone entrusted with the responsibilities of a Police and Crime Commissioner, it is imperative to recognise that addressing the symptoms of civil unrest, such as violence and disorder is fundamental to preventing its recurrence.

“Addressing underlying issues must be done through lawful and inclusive means, not by legitimising unlawful actions.”