PROTESTERS supporting far-right activist Tommy Robinson and anti-racism campaigners will gather in central London on Saturday (1), with police deploying extra officers to maintain order and prevent clashes.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is serving an 18-month prison sentence for breaching a High Court injunction. His supporters, rallying under the banners "Stop the Isolation" and "Unite the Kingdom," will assemble near Waterloo Station from midday before marching to Whitehall.
Meanwhile, the anti-racism group Stand Up To Racism will gather near Piccadilly Circus and march towards Trafalgar Square, with a rally planned near Whitehall.
Commander Louise Puddefoot of the Metropolitan Police assured the public that officers would be on hand to "intervene swiftly and decisively if incidents of crime or disorder occur." She urged those not involved in the protests to avoid the area due to possible disruptions.
Meanwhile, Diane Abbott MP and race equality activists have voiced concerns about the march, citing recent racist attacks in London. "Racist attacks increase when the far right is active and marching on the streets," Abbott said.
Anti-immigration activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, gestures before arriving at Folkestone Police Station in Folkestone, Britain, October 25, 2024. REUTERS/Chris J Ratcliffe
Mohammed Kozbar, chairman of Finsbury Park Mosque, called on police to protect mosques, especially after recent anti-Muslim graffiti attacks. "The far right are trying to spread fear, division, and Islamophobia," he warned.
Supporters of Robinson claim the protest aims to challenge his "political persecution," with organisers stating: "We will proceed to Downing Street. Stand against the isolation of Tommy Robinson."
Weyman Bennett, co-convenor of Stand Up To Racism, said: "We must bring that anti-racist spirit onto the streets of London and reject the politics of hate."
The Metropolitan Police have prepared for the event by increasing security measures, restricting pedestrian access in Whitehall, and advising the public to use alternative routes. They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the protests remain peaceful while minimising disruption to the wider community.
Pope Francis greets Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 summit near Bari, Italy, in June last year, as Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni and then British prime minister Rishi Sunak look on
