Thousands of Tommy Robinson supporters marched to Trafalgar Square in London, calling it the “biggest patriotic rally” in the UK. At the same time, Stand Up To Racism and Jeremy Corbyn’s Peace & Justice Project held a counter-protest nearby. The police had a big operation to keep the peace, with fears of serious disruption.
A Trans Pride event also took place in London, gathering near Oxford Street.
Robinson’s supporters waved England and Union Jack flags and listened to speeches against immigration and for patriotism. They cheered when he asked how many had voted for the Reform party. Robinson said he had invited Nigel Farage to speak, but Farage couldn’t attend.
At the anti-racist protest, Jeremy Corbyn gave a speech, and people held signs saying “no to racism, no to hatred,” chanting “we won’t be silent.”
The Metropolitan Police reported five arrests:
- Two men were arrested for assaulting a participant in the Stand Up To Racism protest, causing a head injury.
- One person was arrested for assaulting a steward at Trans Pride.
- Another man was arrested for assaulting a police officer and making racially aggravated remarks.
- One man was arrested for criminal damage and a racially abusive comment.
The police did not say if those arrested were part of any protest.
Before the marches, police barricaded Whitehall and had mobile units around Westminster. About 1,000 officers were on duty, and strict rules were set for the protests. Police said they would act quickly against anyone breaking the rules. Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove said their main goal was to keep the peace and ensure safe, lawful protests.
Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, faces court on Monday for contempt charges related to a 2021 libel case.
For more details, you can check the BBC source.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce4qd4e4e1vo