Unfortunately, the govt is unable to make the ringleaders accountable, and the rest of the rioters are sheltered by their families, who have a disregard for authority. So when the cops go around to some of these estates, they are given short shrift by the families of those involved, and the culprits get off. And even when they are caught and charged, the anger boils over even more. Maybe Cameron has a weak govt, but whether they are weak or not, the electorate put them in power and gave them a mandate. And that mandate includes sorting out rioters and doing whatever they can to restore calm. Lots of people will be alienated, but again, what can they do.
I am only asking the question here, and saying my piece. No need for people to jump down my throat.