London police brace for large rival protests

13/9/2025 16:52

London police will deploy extra officers on Saturday as right-wing, anti-immigrant protesters and opposing anti-racism demonstrators stage rival rallies, raising concerns over potential clashes.



A "Unite the Kingdom" march organised by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, is due to meet near London's Waterloo Bridge before making its way to the southern end of Whitehall where a rally will take place.



A counter-protest, organised by "Stand Up To Racism", is due to gather at the other end of Whitehall, the main thoroughfare towards parliament.



The Unite the Kingdom march is expected to mourn Charlie Kirk, the American conservative activist shot dead on Wednesday as he gave a talk at a university in Utah. London's Metropolitan Police said barriers will be in place to create space between the two groups.



It said more than 1,600 officers will be deployed across London on Saturday, including 500 brought in from other forces, as in addition to the marches there are high-profile soccer fixtures including West Ham versus Tottenham, concerts and other events.



Around 1,000 officers will be on duty at the marches.