Maybe this is part of your problem across the pond: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-08-16/u-k-inflation-jumps-more-than-estimated-to-4-4-.html UK inflation accelerated to more than 4.4% in July. BOE predicts inflation will hit 5% in coming months.
Organised criminals largely orchestrate the trouble in conjunction with various extremist groups. They target jewellery and high value shops and have been and gone before the cops turn up to catch the stragglers struggling along with an armchair, TV or something.
Sure, I was looking at the other thread your on, with the Mad Max scenario, so that looks like another good one to join.
I remember seeing this prediction on this site and elsewhere. Just thought I'll mention here what actually happened: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/8765760/Chinese-tourist-boom-swells-visitor-numbers-to-UK.html http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/9071757/Royal-wedding-leads-to-tourism-boom.html
I have to admit it has returned to a certain level of normality. However I think it will happen again.