Tens of Thousands Join Anti-Immigration March in London

Tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets of central London on Saturday in a large-scale anti-immigration rally led by far-right activist Tommy Robinson.

Demonstrators carried national flags and placards as the issue of immigration continues to dominate political debate in Britain.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a significant security presence was deployed across the capital. A counter-demonstration organized by the campaign group Stand Up to Racism was also scheduled nearby, following a summer of protests across the UK over immigration and free speech.

By midday, crowds had gathered south of the River Thames before marching towards Westminster, the seat of Parliament. Protesters carried Union Jacks and St George’s Cross flags, while others waved American and Israeli flags. Some wore red Make America Great Again hats associated with former US President Donald Trump.

Chants and slogans criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with banners reading “Send them back”. Many families also brought children to the demonstration.

Robinson described the Unite the Kingdom march as a celebration of free speech.

The event also paid tribute to American conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead on Wednesday. On social media, Robinson claimed that “hundreds of thousands” had filled London’s streets in defense of freedoms.

The Metropolitan Police announced that more than 1,600 officers had been deployed across London, including 500 drafted from outside forces, due to the scale of the march as well as other sporting and cultural events in the city. Commander Clare Hynes said police would act impartially but firmly in response to any incidents.

Last weekend, nearly 900 people were arrested during a London protest against the banning of the pro-Palestinian group Palestine Action.