A study found that officers believe similar outbreaks of rioting are probable because of worsening economic and social conditions. — Photo AP

LONDON: A survey of police officers says British police are expecting a repeat of last summer's riots and are concerned that budget cuts will hinder their ability to cope with unrest.

Riots erupted Aug. 6 in north London and flared for four nights across the capital and other English cities as street gangs and looters trashed shops and vehicles.

A study conducted by the London School of Economics and The Guardian released Monday found that officers believesimilar outbreaks of rioting are probable because of worsening economic and social conditions.

Researchers interviewed 130 officers from eight police forces.

Nearly all those interviewed described the rioting as the greatest physical and psychological challenge of their careers.