News Brief
Arjun Brij
Sep 14, 2025, 11:58 AM | Updated 11:58 AM IST
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Central London on Saturday (13 September) witnessed one of the largest right-wing gatherings in recent memory as more than 100,000 people joined the “Unite the Kingdom” march, organised by anti-immigration campaigner Tommy Robinson.
According to a report by India Today, The Metropolitan Police estimated around 110,000 participants, though aerial images suggested even larger numbers, with several km of roads filled with demonstrators.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, dismissed official figures and claimed “millions” were present.
“THERE ARE MILLIONS OUT FOR THE UNITE THE KINGDOM FREE SPEECH FESTIVAL TODAY!!!! Any mainstream media who prints anything otherwise are LYING,” he wrote on social media, posting video footage from the rally.
The march, framed by Robinson as a free speech festival, coincided with a counter-demonstration by “Stand Up to Racism”, which drew about 5,000 people.
Police officers were repeatedly forced to intervene to prevent clashes, as Robinson’s supporters attempted to breach cordons and move into restricted “sterile areas”.
Several officers were assaulted, prompting reinforcements, protective gear, and mounted police deployment.
The demonstration marked the climax of a summer of protests outside hotels housing asylum seekers. Attendees carried Union Jacks, the St George’s Cross, and even American and Israeli flags.
Many wore “Make America Great Again” hats and chanted slogans critical of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Placards calling to “send them home” were widely seen.
The Metropolitan Police deployed 1,600 officers across the capital, also juggling major football fixtures and concerts.
Commander Clair Haynes stressed, “We will approach them as we do any other protests, policing without fear or favour.”
Immigration remains at the centre of Britain’s political debate, often eclipsing discussions about the nation’s faltering economy.
So far this year, more than 28,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel in small boats, marking a record high in asylum claims.
Please click here to add Swarajya as your preferred and trusted news source on Google
Arjun Brij is an Editorial Associate at Swarajya. He tweets at @arjun_brij