UK PM says won’t ‘surrender’ flag to those spreading fear after massive turnout, violence at right-wing protests

“People have a right to peaceful protest. It is core to our country’s values,” Starmer told BBC news. “But we will not stand for assaults on police officers doing their job or for people feeling intimidated on our streets because of their background or the colour of their skin.”

He added: “Britain is a nation proudly built on tolerance, diversity and respect. Our flag represents our diverse country and we will never surrender it to those that use it as a symbol of violence, fear and division.”

Thousands march in central London

Police said more than 150,000 people took part in a ‘Unite the Kingdom’ march organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, while about 5,000 joined a counter-protest led by Stand Up To Racism.

The Metropolitan Police said 26 officers were injured, including four seriously. Twenty-four people were arrested, most of them men aged between 19 and 58. Officers said some protesters attacked police who were trying to keep rival groups apart.

Mounted police used batons to push back crowds when demonstrators tried to encircle counter-protesters. The Met said it expected more arrests as investigations continue.

Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said: “There is no doubt that many came to exercise their lawful right to protest, but there were many who came intent on violence.”

Ministers respond

Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the protests showed the need to respond to public concerns about issues such as immigration.

“What worries me most is the divisions in our society and other democratic societies,” he told BBC .“There are figures such as Tommy Robinson that are able to touch into a sense of disquiet and grievance in our society.”

Kyle said those who committed violence would be held accountable.

He also criticised tech billionaire Elon Musk, who appeared at the rally via video link and told protesters to “fight back” or “die”. Musk also spoke about migration and called for a change of government in the UK.

Kyle said: “I thought that they were slightly incomprehensible comments that were totally inappropriate.”

The Met said around 1,000 officers were deployed across central London for the demonstrations.

Protesters filled Whitehall, and police said tensions rose when officers prevented them from surrounding the counter-protest.

The Met confirmed live facial recognition cameras were not used during the operation, although the force has deployed them at other major events.