Nigel Farage has described pro-Palestine demonstrations as 'hate marches' following a synagogue attack, as tens of thousands gathered in London for rival protests. The Metropolitan Police reported 31 arrests across the Unite the Kingdom far-right march and the Nakba Day rally on Saturday.
The far-right Unite the Kingdom march, led by Tommy Robinson, drew an estimated 60,000 attendees, significantly down from 150,000 in September. In contrast, organisers of the pro-Palestine Nakba Day rally claimed at least 250,000 participants, making it '10 times bigger' than the far-right event. Police estimated up to 20,000 took part in the pro-Palestinian march.
Among those spotted at the far-right march was Nick Tenconi, head of Nigel Farage's former party Ukip. Tenconi has previously called for the military to 'round up and deport the Islamists, illegals and the communists'. A Polish politician, Dominik Tarczynski, appeared via video link, claiming he was banned from entering the UK by Keir Starmer.
Two men were arrested near Euston station on suspicion of grievous bodily harm following an incident in Birmingham where a man was run over by a van after flags were removed from lamp-posts. The victim, a man in his 30s, suffered a broken leg requiring surgery. Another man was arrested on suspicion of encouraging attacks on a police officer.
David Lammy, the deputy PM, condemned the Unite the Kingdom march organisers for 'spreading hatred and division', stating they do not reflect the Britain he is proud of. Weyman Bennett of Stand Up To Racism said Tommy Robinson failed to silence solidarity with Palestine, as thousands stood together to defend the right to protest.
