Thousands of anti-racism protesters gathered outside Reform UK's headquarters in Victoria, central London, on Saturday, accusing party leader Nigel Farage of spreading “dangerous rhetoric”. The demonstration, organised by Stand up to Racism, saw about 5,000 people chanting in support of refugees before marching through Whitehall to Trafalgar Square.
Organisers said the turnout demonstrated strong support for minority groups targeted in recent disorder, amid fears of further violence. Samira Ali, who made the closing speech, told the PA news agency: “We feel like we have turned the tide. It’s a testament to our mobilisation that they failed to come out.”
Another speaker, Gary McFarlan, 63, a journalist from Haringey, said: “A few days ago, the atmosphere was very different. Lots of people were very scared... We turned it around this week.” He drew historical comparisons, referencing the Battle of Cable Street and the anti-Nazi leagues of the 1970s.
Ms Ali said the protest targeted Reform UK because of Mr Farage's stance on immigration. She said: “The constant rhetoric about ‘stop the boats’, about immigration being a problem... has been replicated on the far-right riots. That’s why we brought the protest to his doorstep today.”
During the march, a GB News reporter reported that a protester “attacked” a crew member. The Metropolitan Police said a video showed a protester trying to obstruct a camera crew, and a security guard intervened. No allegations were made, and GB News said they did not wish to take the matter further.
