More than 100,000 protesters marched through central London on Saturday, carrying flags of England and Britain and clashing with police in one of the UK’s largest right-wing demonstrations in recent years.
London’s Metropolitan Police said the “Unite the Kingdom” march, organised by anti-immigrant activist Tommy Robinson, was attended by around 110,000 people. They were kept apart from a “Stand Up to Racism” counter-protest, which drew about 5,000 participants.
Police were reportedly surprised by the size of the turnout, describing the rally as too large to fit into Whitehall, the wide street lined with government buildings along the approved route. Officers trying to prevent protesters from straying off the path faced “unacceptable violence,” including kicks, punches, and projectiles such as bottles and flares.
A total of 26 officers were injured, four seriously, and 25 arrests were made. Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said authorities were identifying those involved in the disorder and warned they could expect robust police action in the coming days.
The march marked the culmination of a tense summer in Britain, which saw protests outside hotels housing migrants. Demonstrators carried Union flags, St George’s Cross flags, American and Israeli flags, and some wore “Make America Great Again” hats. Placards included slogans critical of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with some reading “send them home.” Several attendees brought children.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, addressed supporters, calling the demonstration “a tidal wave of patriotism.” In a video link, U.S. billionaire Elon Musk called for a change of government in Britain, claiming that people were afraid to exercise free speech.
Supporters, including Sandra Mitchell, said the protest was about reclaiming free speech and limiting illegal migration. At the counter-protest, teacher Ben Hetchin argued that “the more we welcome people, the stronger we are as a country.”
More than 1,600 police officers were deployed across London, including 500 from other forces. The operation coincided with high-profile football matches and concerts, stretching resources further.
Immigration has emerged as a dominant political issue in the UK, overtaking economic concerns, with more than 28,000 migrants arriving in small boats across the Channel this year.
Red and white English flags appeared along streets and on roads, which supporters describe as patriotic, while anti-racism campaigners view them as a message of hostility to foreigners.
