What happened during the rival London protests?
Police officers from across the country were sent to London as supporters of Tommy Robinson, and counter-protesters, marched through the capital on Saturday.
James Cheng-Morris and James Hockaday
Updated Sun 27 October 2024
Barriers and lines of police officers kept the two rival protest groups apart amid fears of disorder. (Getty Images)
A number of arrests were made on Saturday as thousands of protesters – both supporters of far right activist Tommy Robinson and anti-racism demonstrators – marched through central London.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was charged with contempt of court and an offence under the Terrorism Act on Friday and remanded in custody one day before the protests began.
Police officers from across the country were brought in to support the Metropolitan Police on Saturday amid fears the two rival demonstrations could spill over into disorder.
Meanwhile a smaller group of protesters, including the family of Chris Kaba, gathered in Trafalgar Square and marched to Downing Street over deaths at the hands of police.
Here, Yahoo News UK explains why people were marching and what happened in the capital.
What happened at the protests?
Saturday's protest organised on behalf of Robinson, under the name Uniting the Kingdom, marched from Victoria station to the southern end of Whitehall.
Demonstrators, some of whom were drinking cans and glasses of alcohol, carried placards reading “Two tier Keir fuelled the riots”, “Bring back Rwanda” and “Stop the Boats”.
A stage was put up on Parliament Street as protesters calling for Robinson's release chanted, "We want Tommy Out". Supporters watched a screening of Robinson's new documentary instead of a speech by the activist.
Some demonstrators wore “I am Peter Lynch” badges, in reference to a 61-year-old man who died in prison after being jailed for screaming abuse at riot police outside a hotel housing asylum seekers.
Two arrests were made at the demonstration, one on suspicion of a breach of the Public Order Act conditions in place and an alleged breach of the peace, and one on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence, the Metropolitan Police said.
Tommy Robinson's supporters marching through London. (Getty Images)
Police officers arrest a man near Trafalgar Square. (Getty Images)
The counter protest organised by Stand Up To Racism marched from Regent Street St James’s to the north end of Whitehall. Barriers and lines of police officers were set up to keep the rival groups apart.
Meanwhile Winston Churchill's statue in Parliament Square was protected by steel barriers, while the Cenotaph in Whitehall was also sealed-off.
The “massive anti-fascist demonstration” heard from speakers including Jeremy Corbyn, Diane Abbott plus trade union general secretaries.
The Met Police said there was a "brief period of pushing and shoving in Whitehall" when officers "intervened near the Stand Up To Racism stage to arrest a woman for common assault". The woman was later de-arrested, the force said.
A further arrest was made after an officer was assaulted as a group from the Stand Up To Racism march tried to push through a cordon at the end of The Mall.
Organisers called on people to "take to the streets" in a “massive anti-fascist demonstration”. (Getty Images)
Counter-demonstrators feared a repeat of the violent far-right disorder of July.
Police officers from across the country were sent to London as supporters of Tommy Robinson, and counter-protesters, marched through the capital on Saturday.
James Cheng-Morris and James Hockaday
Updated Sun 27 October 2024
Barriers and lines of police officers kept the two rival protest groups apart amid fears of disorder. (Getty Images)
A number of arrests were made on Saturday as thousands of protesters – both supporters of far right activist Tommy Robinson and anti-racism demonstrators – marched through central London.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was charged with contempt of court and an offence under the Terrorism Act on Friday and remanded in custody one day before the protests began.
Police officers from across the country were brought in to support the Metropolitan Police on Saturday amid fears the two rival demonstrations could spill over into disorder.
Meanwhile a smaller group of protesters, including the family of Chris Kaba, gathered in Trafalgar Square and marched to Downing Street over deaths at the hands of police.
Here, Yahoo News UK explains why people were marching and what happened in the capital.
What happened at the protests?
Saturday's protest organised on behalf of Robinson, under the name Uniting the Kingdom, marched from Victoria station to the southern end of Whitehall.
Demonstrators, some of whom were drinking cans and glasses of alcohol, carried placards reading “Two tier Keir fuelled the riots”, “Bring back Rwanda” and “Stop the Boats”.
A stage was put up on Parliament Street as protesters calling for Robinson's release chanted, "We want Tommy Out". Supporters watched a screening of Robinson's new documentary instead of a speech by the activist.
Some demonstrators wore “I am Peter Lynch” badges, in reference to a 61-year-old man who died in prison after being jailed for screaming abuse at riot police outside a hotel housing asylum seekers.
Two arrests were made at the demonstration, one on suspicion of a breach of the Public Order Act conditions in place and an alleged breach of the peace, and one on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence, the Metropolitan Police said.
Tommy Robinson's supporters marching through London. (Getty Images)
Police officers arrest a man near Trafalgar Square. (Getty Images)
The counter protest organised by Stand Up To Racism marched from Regent Street St James’s to the north end of Whitehall. Barriers and lines of police officers were set up to keep the rival groups apart.
Meanwhile Winston Churchill's statue in Parliament Square was protected by steel barriers, while the Cenotaph in Whitehall was also sealed-off.
The “massive anti-fascist demonstration” heard from speakers including Jeremy Corbyn, Diane Abbott plus trade union general secretaries.
The Met Police said there was a "brief period of pushing and shoving in Whitehall" when officers "intervened near the Stand Up To Racism stage to arrest a woman for common assault". The woman was later de-arrested, the force said.
A further arrest was made after an officer was assaulted as a group from the Stand Up To Racism march tried to push through a cordon at the end of The Mall.
Organisers called on people to "take to the streets" in a “massive anti-fascist demonstration”. (Getty Images)
Counter-demonstrators feared a repeat of the violent far-right disorder of July.
(Getty Images)
One arrest was made on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after a racist remark was allegedly directed at an officer, with the Met saying it had not been confirmed which protest the person was attending.
Under police conditions, neither march was allowed to start until 1pm, but at the organisers' request, the Met later said it allowed the Uniting the Kingdom march to start half an hour earlier. Both groups had to follow the force's designated routes and followed orders to disperse by 6pm.
Separately, a few hundred people gathered on the corner of Trafalgar Square for the United Families and Friends Campaign (UFFC) march to Downing Street, where a letter was handed in for Sir Keir Starmer, in a protest over deaths "at the hands of the state".
Activists held signs reading “No justice”, “no-one forgotten, nothing forgiven” and “no to hatred, no to fascism”, while others carried images of people they say died in custody.
The family of Chris Kaba, who was fatally shot by police marksman Martyn Blake – who was cleared of murder on Monday, attended the UFFC march.
Why did the protests happen?
Robinson previously led a march in the capital on 27 July, two days before the Southport stabbings happened. The tragedy was followed by far-right riots across the UK.
In an X post on 9 September, Robinson said Saturday's protest would be held in response to the government's approach to the disorder, which he claimed was "tyrannical".
"We have no choice, any of us, but to come out in our tens and hundreds of thousands, outside 10 Downing Street to send [Sir Keir Starmer] a message: 'You will not intimidate us into silence'."
Stand Up To Racism counter-protesters oppose Tommy Robinson's march in London in July. (Getty Images)
He claimed he would be telling the "truth" about the riots.
Stand up to Racism, which organised the "Stop Tommy Robinson" counter-protest, said: "In July, he marched with 20,000 others, chanting Islamophobic and racist chants. The following week saw far-right riots across the country.
"Stand Up to Racism has called a unity demonstration against Robinson to show that we will not let the far-right take over our streets. Our message is clear: stop the far-right, unity over division."
What happened at the previous London protest?
Thousands of people gathered in the capital for Robinson's march on 27 July - which was also met with a counter-protest.
About 1,000 police officers were deployed to the streets of the capital to “keep the peace”, with nine protest or event-related arrests made. They included two men who were held on suspicion of “GBH (grievous bodily harm)-level assault” after an assault on a counter-protester, the Met said.
Robinson is currently facing jail after he was issued with a contempt of court claim against him following the airing of a film at the protest.
He is alleged to have breached a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
Tommy Robinson outside Folkestone police station on Friday. (PA)
It is understood the airing of a film, titled Silenced, at the demonstration in Trafalgar Square is one of six actions claimed to have breached the injunction between June and July this year.
The film is also pinned to the top of his X account.
One day before the march, Robinson was charged on Friday with failing to provide his mobile phone access code to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said.
He was photographed arriving at Folkestone Police Station to hand himself in. It is understood he will be held in custody following a direction by the High Court.
The charge relates to an incident in Folkestone on 28 July in which Robinson allegedly refused to give the pin number to is mobile phone when stopped under the Terrorism Act.
He is due to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday for a two-day hearing in relation to the alleged contempt of court.
Read more
How an English extremist with a Hitler tattoo hid in plain sight – and plotted to kill (The Guardian)
Chris Kaba’s family says policing reforms like ‘punishment’ for his case (PA Media)
Churchill statue barricaded as thousands of Tommy Robinson supporters march through London (The Telegraph)
One arrest was made on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after a racist remark was allegedly directed at an officer, with the Met saying it had not been confirmed which protest the person was attending.
Under police conditions, neither march was allowed to start until 1pm, but at the organisers' request, the Met later said it allowed the Uniting the Kingdom march to start half an hour earlier. Both groups had to follow the force's designated routes and followed orders to disperse by 6pm.
Separately, a few hundred people gathered on the corner of Trafalgar Square for the United Families and Friends Campaign (UFFC) march to Downing Street, where a letter was handed in for Sir Keir Starmer, in a protest over deaths "at the hands of the state".
Activists held signs reading “No justice”, “no-one forgotten, nothing forgiven” and “no to hatred, no to fascism”, while others carried images of people they say died in custody.
The family of Chris Kaba, who was fatally shot by police marksman Martyn Blake – who was cleared of murder on Monday, attended the UFFC march.
Why did the protests happen?
Robinson previously led a march in the capital on 27 July, two days before the Southport stabbings happened. The tragedy was followed by far-right riots across the UK.
In an X post on 9 September, Robinson said Saturday's protest would be held in response to the government's approach to the disorder, which he claimed was "tyrannical".
"We have no choice, any of us, but to come out in our tens and hundreds of thousands, outside 10 Downing Street to send [Sir Keir Starmer] a message: 'You will not intimidate us into silence'."
Stand Up To Racism counter-protesters oppose Tommy Robinson's march in London in July. (Getty Images)
He claimed he would be telling the "truth" about the riots.
Stand up to Racism, which organised the "Stop Tommy Robinson" counter-protest, said: "In July, he marched with 20,000 others, chanting Islamophobic and racist chants. The following week saw far-right riots across the country.
"Stand Up to Racism has called a unity demonstration against Robinson to show that we will not let the far-right take over our streets. Our message is clear: stop the far-right, unity over division."
What happened at the previous London protest?
Thousands of people gathered in the capital for Robinson's march on 27 July - which was also met with a counter-protest.
About 1,000 police officers were deployed to the streets of the capital to “keep the peace”, with nine protest or event-related arrests made. They included two men who were held on suspicion of “GBH (grievous bodily harm)-level assault” after an assault on a counter-protester, the Met said.
Robinson is currently facing jail after he was issued with a contempt of court claim against him following the airing of a film at the protest.
He is alleged to have breached a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
Tommy Robinson outside Folkestone police station on Friday. (PA)
It is understood the airing of a film, titled Silenced, at the demonstration in Trafalgar Square is one of six actions claimed to have breached the injunction between June and July this year.
The film is also pinned to the top of his X account.
One day before the march, Robinson was charged on Friday with failing to provide his mobile phone access code to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said.
He was photographed arriving at Folkestone Police Station to hand himself in. It is understood he will be held in custody following a direction by the High Court.
The charge relates to an incident in Folkestone on 28 July in which Robinson allegedly refused to give the pin number to is mobile phone when stopped under the Terrorism Act.
He is due to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday for a two-day hearing in relation to the alleged contempt of court.
Read more
How an English extremist with a Hitler tattoo hid in plain sight – and plotted to kill (The Guardian)
Chris Kaba’s family says policing reforms like ‘punishment’ for his case (PA Media)
Churchill statue barricaded as thousands of Tommy Robinson supporters march through London (The Telegraph)
Supporters of far-right British figure rally as anti-racism demonstrators mount counter-protest
BRIAN MELLEY
Sat 26 October 2024
Police form a line to in front of protesters who are taking part in a counter demonstration to a far right pro-UK rally endorsed by Tommy Robinson, in London, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali)
LONDON (AP) — Thousands of supporters of jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson marched through London on Saturday as anti-racism demonstrators mounted a nearby counter-protest.
The so-called Unite the Kingdom march — planned by Robinson and supposed to feature him as speaker — led to calls for his freedom after his arrest Friday on a warrant for contempt of court.
“We want Tommy out," the crowd of mostly white men chanted. The sea of marchers toted Union and England flags and some waved “Make America Great” banners as they gathered near a fenced-off statute of former Prime Minister Winston Churchill in the square opposite the Houses of Parliament.
The march was countered by thousands of people organized by the group Stand Up to Racism who held signs saying “Refugees welcome” and “Oppose Tommy Robinson.”
Robinson, 41, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is the founder of the nationalist and anti-Islamist English Defense League and remains one of the most influential far-right figures in Britain.
He has been blamed for stirring up protests that turned into a week of violent disorder across England and Belfast, Northern Ireland this summer after social media users falsely identified the suspect in a stabbing rampage that killed three young girls in the seaside community of Southport as an immigrant and a Muslim.
Robinson supporters railed against the jailing of hundreds of rioters who assaulted police officers, set cars ablaze, screamed racist epithets and attacked hotels housing asylum seekers.
Some participants wore “I am Peter Lynch” badges and one man held a fishing pole with a sign reading “Peter Lynch RIP patriot." They were referring to a 61-year-old man who died in prison after pleading guilty for his role as part of an angry mob that smashed windows at a hotel in the northern town of Rotherham housing migrants and injured dozens of riot police.
A separate march of several hundred family members, friends and supporters of those who have died in police custody also took place. Some of those activists seemed to echo the anti-racism marchers by holding signs that said “No to hatred, no to fascism.”
At least five people were arrested at the main rallies, the Metropolitan Police said.
Two were arrested on suspicion of assault, including one allegedly on a police officer, at the anti-racism march. One person was arrested at the Unite the Kingdom march for a public order offense and another on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offense. A fifth person was arrested for allegedly directing a racist remark at an officer, but the Met hadn't confirmed which protest the person attended.
Robinson, who has been jailed in the past for assault, contempt of court and mortgage fraud, faces a hearing Monday in a contempt-of-court proceeding for allegedly violating a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libelous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
While Robinson was banned from Twitter in 2018, he was allowed back after Elon Musk took over the social network and rebranded it X. He now has 1 million followers.
Several arrests as thousands of far-right Tommy Robinson protesters rally in London
William Mata and Anthony France
Sat 26 October 2024
Several arrests as thousands of far-right Tommy Robinson protesters rally in London
Thousands of Tommy Robinson supporters have gathered in central London for a planned protest which the political activist missed after he was remanded into custody by police.
Demonstrators carried placards reading “Two tier Keir fuelled the riots” as they headed from Victoria station to Parliament Square on Saturday.
“Bring back Rwanda” and “Stop the Boats” signs were also hoisted by demonstrators – some of whom were drinking cans and glasses of alcohol.
Two arrests have been made at the demonstration, one on suspicion of a breach of the Public Order Act conditions in place and an alleged breach of the peace, and one on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence, the Metropolitan Police said.
A racist remark was directed at an officer leading to another arrest, this time for a racially aggravated public order offence. The protest affiliation of the suspect hasn’t been confirmed.
A counter-protest organised by Stand Up to Racism also took place in the capital, with thousands joining after being urged to “take to the streets” in a “massive anti-fascist demonstration”.
Speakers including Jeremy Corbyn, Diane Abbott plus trade union general secretaries.
Two arrests were made near the Stand Up to Racism protest – one woman was arrested on suspicion of common assault and another arrest was made after an officer was allegedly assaulted, the force added.
Around 6pm Robinson supporters started leaving Westminster as the demonstration nears its end.
Some wore “Make Britain Great Again” hats and others carried signs that read “Pensioners before illegal immigrants”.
Interim Ukip leader Nick Tenconi was among the speakers to address them.
In separate action, a few hundred people gathered on the corner of Trafalgar Square for the United Families and Friends Campaign (UFFC) march to Downing Street, to protest over deaths in custody.
Activists held signs reading “No justice”, “no-one forgotten, nothing forgiven” and “no to hatred, no to fascism”, while others carried images of people they say died in custody.
The family of Chris Kaba, who was fatally shot by police marksman Martyn Blake – who was cleared of murder on Monday, attended the UFFC march.
Robinson, 41, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is accused of being in contempt of court after the airing of a film at a protest in Trafalgar Square in July.
He attended Folkestone police station on Friday where he was remanded ahead of a hearing at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday concerning allegations that he breached a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
It is understood the airing of a film, titled Silenced, at the Trafalgar Square demonstration is one of six actions alleged to have breached the injunction between June and July.
The film is also pinned to the top of his X account.
Robinson was separately charged on Friday with failing to provide his mobile phone access code to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said.
Protesters take part in a counter demonstration to a far right pro-UK rally (AP)
The Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police are being supported by officers from other forces across the country for the protests on Saturday, and the Met said there will be a “significant police presence” to ensure the two groups are kept apart.
Those attending the protest organised by Robinson have marched from Victoria station to the southern end of Whitehall, while the counter-protest has formed at Regent Street St James’s and is due to finish at the northern end of Whitehall.
The Met said static rallies are expected at the end of both marches.
Many demonstrators on Robinson’s march hoisted Union and England flags – with several Make America Great Again flags in support of Donald Trump also in the crowd.
Some demonstrators wore “I am Peter Lynch” badges, in reference to a 61-year-old man who died in prison after being jailed for screaming abuse at riot police outside a hotel housing asylum seekers.
A stage has been erected in Parliament Street with speeches and musical performances taking place as demonstrators chanted “We want Tommy out”.
And before the march started, chants of “Oh Tommy, Tommy” and “We want Starmer out” were heard.
The PA news agency understands Robinson will be held in custody in Folkestone until his court hearing on Monday.
Roads around Trafalgar Square have been closed off (AP)
He was released on unconditional bail in July and subsequently left the country, with Adam Payter, representing the Solicitor General, telling the High Court there “was nothing to prevent him from doing so”.
Mr Justice Johnson issued a warrant for Robinson’s arrest but ordered that it not be carried out “until early October” to allow Robinson time to indicate that he would attend the next hearing voluntarily or to apply to “set aside” the warrant.
Robinson posted a video of himself arriving at Luton Airport on October 20 and said he was surprised he had not been arrested.
He applied to set aside the warrant but his application was dismissed by Mr Justice Johnson on Friday.
William Mata and Anthony France
Sat 26 October 2024
Several arrests as thousands of far-right Tommy Robinson protesters rally in London
Thousands of Tommy Robinson supporters have gathered in central London for a planned protest which the political activist missed after he was remanded into custody by police.
Demonstrators carried placards reading “Two tier Keir fuelled the riots” as they headed from Victoria station to Parliament Square on Saturday.
“Bring back Rwanda” and “Stop the Boats” signs were also hoisted by demonstrators – some of whom were drinking cans and glasses of alcohol.
Two arrests have been made at the demonstration, one on suspicion of a breach of the Public Order Act conditions in place and an alleged breach of the peace, and one on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence, the Metropolitan Police said.
A racist remark was directed at an officer leading to another arrest, this time for a racially aggravated public order offence. The protest affiliation of the suspect hasn’t been confirmed.
A counter-protest organised by Stand Up to Racism also took place in the capital, with thousands joining after being urged to “take to the streets” in a “massive anti-fascist demonstration”.
Speakers including Jeremy Corbyn, Diane Abbott plus trade union general secretaries.
Two arrests were made near the Stand Up to Racism protest – one woman was arrested on suspicion of common assault and another arrest was made after an officer was allegedly assaulted, the force added.
Around 6pm Robinson supporters started leaving Westminster as the demonstration nears its end.
Some wore “Make Britain Great Again” hats and others carried signs that read “Pensioners before illegal immigrants”.
Interim Ukip leader Nick Tenconi was among the speakers to address them.
In separate action, a few hundred people gathered on the corner of Trafalgar Square for the United Families and Friends Campaign (UFFC) march to Downing Street, to protest over deaths in custody.
Activists held signs reading “No justice”, “no-one forgotten, nothing forgiven” and “no to hatred, no to fascism”, while others carried images of people they say died in custody.
The family of Chris Kaba, who was fatally shot by police marksman Martyn Blake – who was cleared of murder on Monday, attended the UFFC march.
Robinson, 41, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is accused of being in contempt of court after the airing of a film at a protest in Trafalgar Square in July.
He attended Folkestone police station on Friday where he was remanded ahead of a hearing at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday concerning allegations that he breached a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
It is understood the airing of a film, titled Silenced, at the Trafalgar Square demonstration is one of six actions alleged to have breached the injunction between June and July.
The film is also pinned to the top of his X account.
Robinson was separately charged on Friday with failing to provide his mobile phone access code to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said.
Protesters take part in a counter demonstration to a far right pro-UK rally (AP)
The Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police are being supported by officers from other forces across the country for the protests on Saturday, and the Met said there will be a “significant police presence” to ensure the two groups are kept apart.
Those attending the protest organised by Robinson have marched from Victoria station to the southern end of Whitehall, while the counter-protest has formed at Regent Street St James’s and is due to finish at the northern end of Whitehall.
The Met said static rallies are expected at the end of both marches.
Many demonstrators on Robinson’s march hoisted Union and England flags – with several Make America Great Again flags in support of Donald Trump also in the crowd.
Some demonstrators wore “I am Peter Lynch” badges, in reference to a 61-year-old man who died in prison after being jailed for screaming abuse at riot police outside a hotel housing asylum seekers.
A stage has been erected in Parliament Street with speeches and musical performances taking place as demonstrators chanted “We want Tommy out”.
And before the march started, chants of “Oh Tommy, Tommy” and “We want Starmer out” were heard.
The PA news agency understands Robinson will be held in custody in Folkestone until his court hearing on Monday.
Roads around Trafalgar Square have been closed off (AP)
He was released on unconditional bail in July and subsequently left the country, with Adam Payter, representing the Solicitor General, telling the High Court there “was nothing to prevent him from doing so”.
Mr Justice Johnson issued a warrant for Robinson’s arrest but ordered that it not be carried out “until early October” to allow Robinson time to indicate that he would attend the next hearing voluntarily or to apply to “set aside” the warrant.
Robinson posted a video of himself arriving at Luton Airport on October 20 and said he was surprised he had not been arrested.
He applied to set aside the warrant but his application was dismissed by Mr Justice Johnson on Friday.
(Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire)
(Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire)
(Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire)
Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament joins anti-racism march
Thousands gather for Tommy Robinson’s protest as activist remains in custody
William Warnes, Sam Hall and Jordan Reynolds, PA
Sat 26 October 2024
Thousands of Tommy Robinson supporters gathered in central London for a planned protest which the political activist missed after he was remanded into custody by police.
Demonstrators carried placards reading “Two tier Keir fuelled the riots” as they headed from Victoria station to Parliament Square on Saturday.
“Bring back Rwanda” and “Stop the Boats” signs were also hoisted by demonstrators – some of whom were drinking cans and glasses of alcohol.
Two arrests were made at the demonstration, one on suspicion of a breach of the Public Order Act conditions in place and an alleged breach of the peace, and one on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence, the Metropolitan Police said.
A counter-protest organised by Stand Up to Racism also took place in the capital, with thousands joining after being urged to “take to the streets” in a “massive anti-fascist demonstration”.
Supporters of a rally endorsed by Tommy Robinson march from Victoria Station to Parliament Square in central London (Jordan Pettitt/PA)
The counter demonstration heard from speakers including Jeremy Corbyn, Diane Abbott plus trade union general secretaries.
Two arrests were made near the Stand Up to Racism protest – one woman was arrested on suspicion of common assault – who was later de-arrested, and another arrest was made after an officer was allegedly assaulted, the force added.
And one arrest was made on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after a racist remark was allegedly directed at an officer, with the Met saying it had not been confirmed which protest the person was attending.
In separate action, a few hundred people gathered on the corner of Trafalgar Square for the United Families and Friends Campaign (UFFC) march to Downing Street, where a letter was handed in for Sir Keir Starmer, in a protest over deaths in custody.
Activists held signs reading “No justice”, “no-one forgotten, nothing forgiven” and “no to hatred, no to fascism”, while others carried images of people they say died in custody.
The family of Chris Kaba, who was fatally shot by police marksman Martyn Blake – who was cleared of murder on Monday, attended the UFFC march.
Robinson, 41, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is accused of being in contempt of court after the airing of a film at a protest in Trafalgar Square in July.
He attended Folkestone police station on Friday where he was remanded ahead of a hearing at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday concerning allegations that he breached a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
Tommy Robinson outside Folkestone Police Station (Jordan Pettitt/PA)
It is understood the airing of a film, titled Silenced, at the Trafalgar Square demonstration is one of six actions alleged to have breached the injunction between June and July.
The film is also pinned to the top of his X account.
Robinson was separately charged on Friday with failing to provide his mobile phone access code to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said.
The Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police were supported by officers from other forces across the country for the protests on Saturday, and before the protests the Met said there would be a “significant police presence” to ensure the two groups are kept apart.
Those attending the protest organised by Robinson marched from Victoria station to the southern end of Whitehall, while the counter-protest formed at Regent Street St James’s and finished at the northern end of Whitehall.
Many demonstrators on Robinson’s march hoisted Union and England flags – with several Make America Great Again flags in support of Donald Trump also in the crowd.
Some demonstrators wore “I am Peter Lynch” badges, in reference to a 61-year-old man who died in prison after being jailed for screaming abuse at riot police outside a hotel housing asylum seekers.
A stage was erected in Parliament Street where speeches and musical performances took place as demonstrators chanted “We want Tommy out”.
Interim Ukip leader Nick Tenconi was among the speakers at the demonstration.
And before the march started, chants of “Oh Tommy, Tommy” and “We want Starmer out” were heard.
The PA news agency understands Robinson will be held in custody in Folkestone until his court hearing on Monday.
He was released on unconditional bail in July and subsequently left the country, with Adam Payter, representing the Solicitor General, telling the High Court there “was nothing to prevent him from doing so”.
Mr Justice Johnson issued a warrant for Robinson’s arrest but ordered that it not be carried out “until early October” to allow Robinson time to indicate that he would attend the next hearing voluntarily or to apply to “set aside” the warrant.
Robinson posted a video of himself arriving at Luton Airport on October 20 and said he was surprised he had not been arrested.
He applied to set aside the warrant but his application was dismissed by Mr Justice Johnson on Friday.
The separate charge under the Terrorism Act relates to his arrest in July at a port in Kent, where he was accused of “frustration” of police counter-terrorism powers.
He allegedly failed to provide his mobile phone access code to officers at the Channel Tunnel in Folkestone.
Under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, police are allowed to stop anyone passing through a UK port “to determine whether they may be involved or concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism”.
The person who is detained can be held for up to six hours, is legally obliged to answer questions and must provide the password or access number for electronic devices, or be held to have committed a criminal offence if they refuse.
Robinson said he objected to a request from police for the number to his phone because there was privileged information on the device relating to an ongoing High Court case.
Police vow robust action as Tommy Robinson march and counter protest take place in central London
Anthony France
Fri 25 October 2024
Police vow robust action as Tommy Robinson march and counter protest take place in central London
Police are braced for a huge march by far-right activist Tommy Robinson and counter-demonstrators in central London on Saturday.
Officers vowed to “deal decisively” with disorder and will be supported by other UK forces to ensure a “significant presence” keeps the two groups apart.
Thousands of supporters of Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, are due to hold a rally in Westminster, which is expected to be met with a rival protest from Stop the War campaigners.
Emotions are running high after Robinson - accused of stoking racial tensions during the summer riots while on holiday abroad - will miss his own planned protest after he was remanded into custody by police.
The 41-year-old is accused of being in contempt of court after the airing of a film in Trafalgar Square in July.
He attended Folkestone police station on Friday where he was separately charged with failing to provide his mobile phone access code to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said.
On Saturday, the protest organised by Robinson is due to march from London Victoria station to the southern end of Whitehall, while the counter-protest organised by Stand up to Racism will begin at Regent Street St James’s and finish at the north end of Whitehall.
The Metropolitan Police said static rallies are expected at the end of both marches.
Relatives of Chris Kaba are attending a separate protest led by the United Friends and Families Campaign taking place in Trafalgar Square from around midday.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Rachel Williams, who is leading the policing operation, said: “We are well prepared for what is set to be a busy day in the centre of London.
Tommy Robinson (centre) leads a protest march through London in June (David Parry/PA) (PA Wire)
“Our role is to ensure that those attending the various events can do so safely and that they can exercise their right to lawful protest.
“We will have significant resources in place to respond to any incidents, to deal decisively with any offences, and to keep disruption to other members of the public and businesses to a minimum.
“We know that when groups with opposing views come together it can lead to conflict and disorder, and a key part of our role is ensuring that does not happen.
“We have used Public Order Act conditions to ensure that those involved stick to routes and assembly areas that are sufficiently far apart. Officers will be monitoring closely to ensure that conditions are adhered to.”
Ms Williams continued: “The impact of frequent significant protest in central London is considerable, not least on the officers deployed to police them.
“Many would be working in other frontline roles if they weren’t required for these events.
“We’re grateful for the assistance of colleagues from other forces whose contribution means we are able to police protests while also keeping local communities across London safe.”
Robinson is due to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday for a two-day contempt hearing.
It followed the airing of a film, titled Silenced, repeating libellous allegations about Syrian refugee Jamal Hijazi at a protest in central London.
Mr Hijazi successfully sued Robinson after the then-schoolboy was assaulted at Almondbury Community School in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, in October 2018.
After a clip of the incident went viral, Robinson made false claims, including about Mr Hijazi attacking girls in his school, leading to the libel case.
Mr Justice Nicklin ordered Robinson to pay Mr Hijazi £100,000 in damages and his legal costs, as well as making the injunction preventing Robinson from repeating the allegations.
Tommy Robinson charged by police under Terrorism Act after returning to UK
Howard Lloyd
WALES ONLINE
Fri 25 October 2024
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
Political activist Tommy Robinson will miss his own planned march for thousands of people after being remanded into custody by police. The 41-year-old, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is accused of being in contempt of court following the airing of a film at a protest in central London.
He attended Folkestone Police station on Friday where he was separately charged with failing to provide his mobile phone pin to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said. Robinson is due to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday for a two-day hearing concerning allegations he breached a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
Supporters of Robinson are due to hold a demonstration on Saturday, which is expected to be met with a counter-protest organised by Stand Up to Racism.
The Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police are due to be supported by officers from other forces across the country as the Met said there will be a “significant police presence” to ensure the two groups are kept apart.
Fri 25 October 2024
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
Political activist Tommy Robinson will miss his own planned march for thousands of people after being remanded into custody by police. The 41-year-old, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is accused of being in contempt of court following the airing of a film at a protest in central London.
He attended Folkestone Police station on Friday where he was separately charged with failing to provide his mobile phone pin to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said. Robinson is due to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday for a two-day hearing concerning allegations he breached a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
Supporters of Robinson are due to hold a demonstration on Saturday, which is expected to be met with a counter-protest organised by Stand Up to Racism.
The Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police are due to be supported by officers from other forces across the country as the Met said there will be a “significant police presence” to ensure the two groups are kept apart.
Tommy Robinson to miss planned protest after being remanded into custody
Josh Payne, PA Chief Reporter
Fri 25 October 2024
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Political activist Tommy Robinson will miss his own planned march for thousands of people after being remanded into custody by police.
The 41-year-old, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is accused of being in contempt of court following the airing of a film at a protest in central London.
He attended Folkestone Police station on Friday where he was separately charged with failing to provide his mobile phone Pin to police under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000, Kent Police said.
Robinson is due to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday for a two-day hearing concerning allegations he breached a 2021 High Court order barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee who successfully sued him.
It is understood the airing of a film, titled Silenced, at a demonstration in Trafalgar Square in July is one of six actions claimed to have breached the injunction between June and July this year.
The film is also pinned to the top of his X, formerly Twitter, account.
Supporters of Robinson are due to hold a demonstration on Saturday, which is expected to be met with a counter-protest organised by Stand Up to Racism.
The Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police are due to be supported by officers from other forces across the country as the Met said there will be a “significant police presence” to ensure the two groups are kept apart.
The PA news agency understands Robinson will be held in custody in Folkestone until his court hearing on Monday.
He was released on unconditional bail in July and subsequently left the country, with Adam Payter, representing the Solicitor General, telling the High Court there “was nothing to prevent him from doing so”.
Mr Justice Johnson issued a warrant for Robinson’s arrest but ordered that it not be carried out “until early October” to allow Robinson time to indicate that he would attend the next hearing voluntarily or to apply to “set aside” the warrant.
Tommy Robinson has been remanded into custody (Jordan Pettitt/PA)
Robinson posted a video of himself arriving at Luton Airport on October 20 and said he was surprised he had not been arrested.
The activist applied to set aside the warrant but his application was dismissed by Mr Justice Johnson on Friday.
Kent Police said Robinson was separately charged with an offence under the Terrorism Act, and he was bailed in relation to that matter.
It follows his arrest in July at a port in Kent where he was accused of “frustration” of police counter-terrorism powers.
He has now been charged under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 after allegedly failing to provide his mobile phone Pin to officers at the Channel Tunnel in Folkestone.
Under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, police are allowed to stop anyone passing through a UK port “to determine whether they may be involved or concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism”.
The person who is detained can be held for up to six hours, is legally obliged to answer questions and must provide the password or Pin for electronic devices, or be held to have committed a criminal offence if they refuse.
Robinson said he objected to a request from police for the Pin to his phone because there was privileged information on the device relating to an ongoing High Court case.
On Saturday, the protest organised by Robinson is due to march from Victoria station to the southern end of Whitehall, while the counter-protest organised by Stand up to Racism will begin at Regent Street St James’s and finish at the north end of Whitehall.
The Met said static rallies are expected at the end of both marches.
Tommy Robinson outside Folkestone Police Station (Jordan Pettitt/PA)
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Rachel Williams, who is leading the policing operation, said: “We are well prepared for what is set to be a busy day in the centre of London.
“Our role is to ensure that those attending the various events can do so safely and that they can exercise their right to lawful protest.
“We will have significant resources in place to respond to any incidents, to deal decisively with any offences, and to keep disruption to other members of the public and businesses to a minimum.
“We know that when groups with opposing views come together it can lead to conflict and disorder, and a key part of our role is ensuring that does not happen.
“We have used Public Order Act conditions to ensure that those involved stick to routes and assembly areas that are sufficiently far apart. Officers will be monitoring closely to ensure that conditions are adhered to.”
Ms Williams continued: “The impact of frequent significant protest in central London is considerable, not least on the officers deployed to police them.
“Many would be working in other frontline roles if they weren’t required for these events.
“We’re grateful for the assistance of colleagues from other forces whose contribution means we are able to police protests while also keeping local communities across London safe.”
