UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has denounced right-wing protesters in London for misusing the national flag to promote division rather than the diverse values it represents. His criticisms came in response to the ‘Unite the Kingdom’ rally, organized by prominent right-wing activist Tommy Robinson, which drew tens of thousands of participants. The event, held on Saturday, saw large crowds marching through the city with Union flags and St. George’s crosses, displaying messages like ‘Stop the Boats’ and images of conservative American influencer Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated earlier in the week.
Critics have condemned the rally’s actions, with Starmer arguing that the use of the national flag by such groups represents a deviation from its intended symbolism. During the protest, police deployed 1,000 officers and implemented strict crowd control measures to ensure the safety of all attendees. Despite these efforts, clashes broke out when some demonstrators attempted to breach a cordon near the main stage, leading to at least 26 injuries and 25 arrests. Starmer reiterated that the flag embodies the United Kingdom’s diverse heritage and warned against its use to incite violence or division.
Starmer’s post on X on Sunday further condemned the ‘assaults on police officers’ and accused the rally of ‘intimidating’ residents of different backgrounds and skin colors. He emphasized the importance of peaceful protest while stressing that the government will not tolerate attacks on law enforcement or harassment based on race. The statement underscored the UK’s commitment to tolerance, diversity, and respect for all communities. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has long been associated with nationalist views and described the rally as a defense of British heritage and culture. Some attendees expressed anger over immigration, calling it an ‘invasion.’
Business Secretary Peter Kyle claimed the turnout, which organizers estimated to be in the ‘millions,’ was a ‘klaxon call’ for politicians to address pressing issues such as immigration. The rally follows the UK’s recent efforts to ban the Palestine Action group and the arrests of peaceful protesters, as well as increasing controversy over new hate speech and online safety laws that critics argue unfairly target online discourse. These events come just one year after anti-immigration riots broke out in multiple UK cities, highlighting the growing tensions over immigration and national identity in the country.