Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to prevent “far-right agitators” from entering the UK ahead of a significant march led by Tommy Robinson in London this weekend, reports BritPanorama.
More than 100,000 protesters are anticipated at the Unite the Kingdom rally in central London, prompting Scotland Yard to implement an extensive police operation.
The Prime Minister condemned the event as “designed to confront and intimidate this diverse country” and indicated that ministers are prepared to block additional overseas speakers from entering Britain prior to Saturday’s demonstration.
He stated: “We will not allow people to come to the UK, threaten our communities and spread hate on our streets.” So far, seven individuals have been prevented from travelling to Britain for the rally under Home Office powers.
Among those banned is Valentina Gomez, a US anti-Islam influencer, who faced backlash over videos of her burning a copy of the Koran. Another right-wing US commentator, Joey Mannarino, also reported being denied entry, citing that his presence was deemed “not conducive to the public good.” This rationale was similarly employed to bar rapper Kanye West from the UK.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has expressed concern regarding the scale of the upcoming protests, noting that his force is evaluating the conditions and powers necessary to maintain order. The previous Unite the Kingdom protest drew between 110,000 and 150,000 attendees.
The government’s response highlights its ongoing commitment to address concerns related to public safety and community cohesion amidst rising tensions linked to far-right movements.
