Business and trade secretary Peter Kyle has said the huge Tommy Robinson-organised protest in London demonstrates that free speech is 'alive and well' in the UK, while condemning violence against the police. Between 110,000 and 150,000 people attended the 'Unite the Kingdom' march on Saturday, with 24 arrests and 26 police officers injured, four seriously.
Speaking to Sky News, Kyle said the turnout did not disturb him as it proved freedom of association exists, but noted that a minority who perpetrate violence against police are unacceptable and should face consequences. He described the event as a 'klaxon call' for politicians to address public concerns, including immigration.
Separately, Kyle defended the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador despite warnings over his links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He told the BBC it was 'highly unlikely' Mandelson would have been appointed had the full information been known at the time. The Liberal Democrats have called for an independent investigation into what was known about Mandelson's friendship with Epstein.
Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is facing calls to disclose who funded his trip to the US in March, where he headlined a fundraiser for Donald Trump. The Sunday Times reported that Farage may have breached parliamentary rules by failing to register the visit within 28 days. Labour and the Liberal Democrats urged the Clacton MP to explain how the trip was financed.
