London Protest against Immigration Draws Over 100,000, Sparks Clashes
London - A large-scale demonstration against immigration took place in teh British capital on Saturday, attracting a crowd estimated by police to exceed 100,000 participants. The rally, culminating over a week of protests nationwide, underscores escalating tensions surrounding the United Kingdom’s asylum system and the housing of asylum seekers.
The demonstration reflects growing public concern over the number of individuals seeking refuge in the UK, and the government’s methods for their accommodation. As of the end of March, British media reported more than 30,000 asylum seekers were being housed in approximately 200 hotels across England and Wales. The protests, and the government’s subsequent response, signal a potential shift in policy regarding asylum seeker housing and broader immigration debates.
The protest was organized by Tommy Robinson, a prominent figure associated with the far right, and featured demonstrators carrying English and British flags alongside signs with slogans such as “Send them home” and “Save our kids.” Elon Musk, the US billionaire, addressed the crowd remotely via video link, stating that “massive uncontrolled migration” is contributing to the “destruction of Britain.”
Escalation of unrest followed an incident in July involving an Ethiopian asylum seeker staying at a hotel in Essex.The man was charged with sexual assault and other offenses after allegedly attempting to kiss a girl and touching her inappropriately, triggering initial protests at that location which then spread to other hotels accommodating asylum seekers.
Saturday’s rally was not without incident; clashes between protesters and police resulted in 26 officer injuries, and authorities reported 25 arrests. A counter-demonstration, drawing thousands advocating against the far right under banners declaring “Stop the far right,” also occurred.
In response to the increasing unrest, the British government has announced plans to phase out the use of hotels for asylum seeker accommodation. The timeline for this transition has not been fully detailed.
