Thousands to descend on London for Tommy Robinson rally and counter-protest
Thousands in London for ‘Unite the Kingdom’ rally and anti-fascism march
- Thousands are attending two opposing protests in central London on Saturday: a "Unite the Kingdom" rally organised by Tommy Robinson and a "March Against Fascism" counter-protest by Stand Up To Racism.
- The Metropolitan Police has deployed around 1,000 officers specifically for the protests, with a total of 1,600 across the city, to prevent clashes and manage other events.
- Commander Clair Haynes of the Met Police advised Muslim Londoners not to alter their plans for Saturday, assuring them of safety despite concerns over anti-Muslim rhetoric at previous marches.
- Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, urged his rally attendees to avoid masks, alcohol, and violence, framing the event as a "free speech festival" featuring speakers like Jordan Peterson.
- Stand Up To Racism's counter-protest, which includes MP Diane Abbott, aims to send a clear message against the far-right threat, with police implementing strict conditions and barriers to separate the groups.