The killing of Charlie Kirk is being exploited by Tommy Robinson to mobilise support ahead of what is expected to be Britain's largest far-right rally in decades. The event, dubbed 'Unite the Kingdom', is set to draw tens of thousands to central London on Saturday, with speakers from the UK, US and Europe.
Among the planned speakers are Steve Bannon, former chief strategist to Donald Trump, and Ant Middleton, a former UK special forces soldier who has increasingly used far-right rhetoric. Also listed are a German MP from the far-right AfD party and a Polish MEP. However, doubts remain over whether Jordan Peterson, the Canadian psychology professor, will appear despite being listed in the lineup.
Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has been heavily monetising the event, with constant appeals for money towards a goal of about £300,000. In a video to supporters, he referenced the Kirk shooting, speaking of 'the bastard who has murdered him, or the organisation, the corporation or the government it is that has killed him'.
The rally is expected to attract upwards of 40,000 attendees, according to the anti-extremism group Hope Not Hate. A smaller counter-protest organised by Stand Up to Racism will also take place, led by a Women Against the Far Right contingent including MPs Zarah Sultana and Diane Abbott.
Police have imposed a pause on new leave bookings, having had to contend with violence at previous Robinson events. The Metropolitan Police has been in discussions with Robinson, with a spokesperson noting that Saturday will be a busy day in London.
