Counter-terrorism police have launched a major investigation after a fire broke out at a property owned by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in North West London.

Emergency services responded to the scene at 1.11am on Monday morning (12 May) after reports of a blaze at the £2 million townhouse, which the PM currently rents out.

The fire, which damaged the entrance of the home, is being treated as suspicious, and is believed to have been started deliberately, according to Scotland Yard’s SO15 Counter Terrorism Command.

Loud Bang, Police Cordon, and Forensic Hunt

Residents on the quiet residential street reported being woken by a loud bang, with one neighbour describing the fire as “scary”. The entire street was later cordoned off, and forensic officers in blue and white overalls were seen combing for evidence throughout the day.

A Met Police spokesperson said:

“The fire is being investigated and cordons remain in place while enquiries continue. Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101 quoting CAD 441/12 May.”

 Fire Quickly Contained, No Injuries Reported

The London Fire Brigade confirmed they were called at 1.11am, and that two fire engines from Kentish Town Fire Station had the fire under control by 1.33am.

“Damage was caused to the property’s entrance, but nobody was hurt,” the Met said.

Sir Keir Starmer’s official spokesperson said:

“The Prime Minister thanks the emergency services for their work. The matter is subject to a live investigation and we will not comment further at this time.”

Linked Incidents?

Some neighbours claimed another car fire occurred opposite the home last Wednesday, though it is currently unclear if the two incidents are connected.

Property Background and Political Timing

Sir Keir, who now resides in 10 Downing Street with his family, owns the North London home but has rented it out since becoming Prime Minister. He and his wife Victoria were previously photographed outside the house clapping for NHS workers during lockdown.

The fire comes just hours before the Prime Minister unveiled Labour’s immigration overhaul, which includes tighter citizenship rules, stricter visa thresholds, and an attempt to curb net migration by 100,000 a year.

Political Fallout and Migration Debate

Speaking from Downing Street earlier today, Sir Keir warned of the UK becoming an “island of strangers” and accused the Conservatives of failing to manage migration, as he outlined the flagship Immigration White Paper.

However, critics, including Reform UK, have slammed the lack of a numerical migration cap. Richard Tice said:

“There’s no target, no number that can be measured against.”