Muslims in London have been assured by the Metropolitan Police that they should not alter their plans in light of an upcoming rally orchestrated by far-right figure Tommy Robinson. Robinson, also known as Stephen Yaxley Lennon, has arranged the Unite the Kingdom march for September 13, calling it the UK’s largest free speech event and anticipating a significant turnout with guest speakers like Jordan Peterson and Katie Hopkins.
Despite the scheduled right-wing demonstration, the police have emphasized that Muslim residents in London should feel safe while navigating the city. Commander Clair Haynes, overseeing the weekend’s public order policing operation, addressed concerns within the Muslim community regarding past anti-Muslim sentiments at similar events but advised against changing plans, affirming that everyone should feel secure moving in and around London.
Stand Up To Racism (SUTR) has arranged a counter-protest, the March Against Fascism, starting at Russell Square and progressing towards Whitehall, led by hundreds of women including MP Diane Abbott. Police will implement barriers to separate the opposing groups and ensure public safety, with restrictions under the Public Order Act to manage protest locations and timings.
With multiple events including Premier League matches occurring on the same day, over 1,600 officers, including reinforcements from other forces, will be deployed across London to address the protests and maintain public order. Ms Haynes expressed confidence in the police’s ability to manage the complex operation effectively and called for cooperation from protesters to minimize disruptions and prevent any incidents of hate crime during the demonstrations.