Eleven Foreign Far-Right Activists Barred Entry to UK Ahead of London Protests
Eleven foreign individuals, identified as "far-right agitators" by the government, have been denied entry to the UK. This action precedes a "Unite the Kingdom" rally scheduled for Saturday, organised by anti-Islam activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson.
Sir Keir Starmer stated on Friday that the nation is "in a fight for the soul of this country," directly referencing the "Unite the Kingdom" march. He asserted that its organisers are "peddling hatred and division," and pledged to "block those coming into the UK who seek to incite hatred and violence." Starmer warned that anyone seeking to "wreak havoc on our streets" would "face the full force of the law."
Robinson, in a social media post, criticised Starmer's administration, labelling it "the enemy of the British people" and urged supporters to "descend on London."
Among those barred is US-based anti-Islam influencer Valentina Gomez, who had attended a previous "Unite the Kingdom" event in September. That prior rally, while commencing peacefully, saw violent confrontations with police and instances of anti-Muslim hate speech.
The Metropolitan Police anticipate one of their busiest days, deploying over 4,000 officers due to concerns over potential clashes between the rival demonstrations. Protesters for the "Unite the Kingdom" event are expected at Parliament Square, while a separate pro-Palestine Nakba Day march will commence at Waterloo Place. Additionally, tens of thousands of football supporters will be at Wembley Stadium for the FA Cup Final.
The Met has imposed the "highest degree of control," including the first authorisation of live facial recognition cameras at a demonstration. Other measures include drone deployment, armoured vehicles on standby, and equipping all officers with riot gear. Specialist officers are prepared for swift arrests and charges related to hate speech, including chants referring to "intifada" at the pro-Palestinian march. New Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) guidance encourages prosecutors to assess protest placards, banners, and chants viewed on social media for potential offences of stirring up hatred.
Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson clarified, "This is not about restricting free speech. It is about preventing hate crime and protecting the public, particularly at a time of heightened tensions. Where the line into criminality is crossed, we will not hesitate to prosecute."
