London Police Prepare for Rival Protests Over Immigration and Racism

 

Police in London are preparing for major rival demonstrations this weekend as tensions rise between right-wing anti-immigration groups and anti-racism campaigners. The “Unite the Kingdom” march, led by activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, better known as Tommy Robinson, is set to gather near Waterloo Bridge before moving toward Whitehall for a rally. Organisers say the march will also pay tribute to US conservative figure Charlie Kirk, who was recently killed in Utah.

At the same time, “Stand Up To Racism” will hold a counter-protest at the other end of Whitehall, raising concerns that the close proximity of the two groups could trigger confrontations. To limit risks, London’s Metropolitan Police have announced extensive security measures including barriers separating the groups. More than 1,600 officers will be deployed across the city, with 1,000 focused specifically on the marches. An additional 500 officers are being drafted in from other police forces.

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Police leaders have stressed they will ensure that both groups can exercise their lawful rights to protest, but promised to respond firmly to any outbreaks of violence or disorder. London is also hosting high-profile football matches, concerts, and other events on the same day, adding pressure to policing resources.

The rival marches in London come at a time when immigration has become one of the most dominant and divisive issues in British politics. The country has recorded a surge in asylum claims and migrant arrivals by small boats crossing the English Channel, with more than 28,000 arrivals already this year. These record numbers have intensified political debate and public criticism of government policies on migration.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, facing pressure over how his administration is handling immigration, recently reshuffled his government. He appointed Shabana Mahmood as the new interior minister in a bid to strengthen leadership on this pressing issue. Public frustration is high, and right-wing groups are using the immigration crisis to fuel their campaigns, while anti-racism groups argue that their rhetoric spreads division and fear.

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Recent events in London also show the potential for protests to escalate. Just last week, nearly 900 people were arrested at a demonstration against the ban on the group Palestine Action. Authorities are keen to avoid a repeat of that unrest. Saturday’s protests will test the ability of London police to maintain order in the face of deep divisions, with immigration and national identity dominating the public agenda.