French authorities have announced a sweeping ban on British far-right activists planning to take part in a 'stop the boats' protest against asylum seekers crossing the Channel to the UK. The interdepartmental order by the prefects of Nord and Pas-de-Calais prohibits gatherings of self-proclaimed members of groups such as Raise the Colours and Operation Overlord from Friday evening until Monday morning.
The ban aims to prevent British far-right activists involved in 'Operation Overlord' from travelling to France. Operation Overlord, named after the D-day landings, was launched by Raise the Colours, an anti-migrant group, but is now run by Daniel Thomas, an associate of activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson.
In a statement, the prefects said that for several months, activists from the British far-right movement have been observed on the coast engaging in intimidation against migrants and humanitarian organisations. They described the actions as part of a xenophobic and anti-immigrant ideology that creates a clear risk of public disorder.
The ban covers the districts of Dunkirk, Calais, Boulogne-sur-Mer, Montreuil-sur-Mer and Lille. French authorities stated that British nationals apprehended will be returned to the border as quickly as possible. Internal security forces will be fully mobilised to protect migrants and guarantee safety.
Lachlan Macrae of Calais Food Collective welcomed the ban, stating that the decision shows these people to be far-right racist agitators. He called on the British government to take action against groups that promote violence and hatred.
