The former leader of Bradford Council has condemned the violent attacks in Northern Ireland which have included the attempted murder of a female police officer.

Kris Hopkins (pictured), who is now MP for Keighley, spoke in the Commons yesterday about the street protests following a vote by councillors to restrict the flying of the Union flag at Belfast City Hall.

On Monday night Loyalists threw a petrol bomb into an unmarked car as a policewoman sat inside.

Mr Hopkins said: “I reiterate my support and admiration for the brave men and women of the police service of Northern Ireland and absolutely condemn the mindless thugs who are betraying the name of Unionism which I support.”

He asked Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers if she agreed that “every brick and petrol bomb being thrown is damaging inward investment, job creation and tourism”.

She responded: “Significant economic damage is being done as a result of these riots which is another reason why they must cease immediately.”