Thousands clash in London streets as Tommy Robinson march meets anti-racism protesters
Crowds waving Union Jacks and St George’s Cross flags in central London
Clashes feared as “Unite the Kingdom” march from Waterloo Station meets Stand Up To Racism counter-protest in central London
Thousands of people flooded central London today as right-wing activist Tommy Robinson led his “Unite the Kingdom” march, while anti-racism campaigners staged a large-scale counter-protest.
By early afternoon, vast crowds waving Union Jacks and St George’s flags had gathered near Waterloo Station before marching towards Whitehall, where the rally is due to conclude.
At the same time, Stand Up To Racism (SUTR) activists launched their “March Against Fascism”, beginning in Russell Square and moving through Kingsway and Aldwych before reaching Whitehall.
Chants from both sides echoed across the city: Robinson supporters shouted anti-political slogans, while counter-protesters carried placards reading “Refugees Welcome” and “Oppose Tommy Robinson”, repeating calls of “say it loud, say it clear, refugees are welcome here”.
Heavy police presence across the capital
The Metropolitan Police deployed more than 1,600 officers to maintain order, including 500 drafted in from outside forces. Barriers and a “sterile zone” have been set up to keep the two marches apart.
Police confirmed facial recognition technology would not be used, though mobile CCTV units are monitoring crowds.
Met Commander Clair Haynes urged calm, particularly after concerns were raised about potential risks to Muslim Londoners. She said:
“Everyone should be able to feel safe travelling into and around London. That is our priority.”
Crowd size disputed
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, claimed a million people had joined the rally. The Met Police refused to provide an official estimate.
A livestream of the event on Robinson’s X (formerly Twitter) account drew over 300,000 viewers by midday.
The Unite the Kingdom march has been branded by Robinson as “Britain’s biggest free speech festival”, featuring speeches from controversial figures including Steve Bannon, former strategist to Donald Trump, and broadcaster Katie Hopkins.
Strict conditions on both protests
Under the Public Order Act, both events are subject to restrictions. The SUTR rally must end by 4 pm, while Robinson’s event is permitted until 6 pm.
Robinson has instructed his supporters not to wear masks, consume alcohol, or engage in violence.
London’s streets are already stretched with thousands attending football matches across the city, including Premier League derbies, West Ham vs Tottenham and Brentford vs Chelsea.
