Anti-immigration protests in the UK, Stermer: We will not tolerate attacks on police officers by protesters
NEWS
Express newspaper
14/09/2025 19:18
Britain will not surrender its flag to those who wish to use it as a symbol of violence, fear and division, said British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
The prime minister said the flag represents “our diverse country” and that he will not allow people to feel intimidated on “our streets because of their background or the color of their skin.”
His comments come after more than 150,000 people took to the streets of central London for a “Unite the Kingdom” march organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, and around 5,000 took part in a counter-protest, coordinated by Stand Up To Racism.
Earlier, Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the marchers were “demonstrating freedom of association and freedom of speech”.
The British Prime Minister said on Sunday afternoon: “People have the right to peaceful protest. This is fundamental to the values of our country.
“But we will not tolerate attacks on police officers doing their job or for people to feel afraid on our streets because of their background or the color of their skin.”
“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 who use it as a symbol of violence, fear and division.”
Police say 26 officers were injured that day – including four who were seriously injured – with 24 people arrested.
For much of Saturday afternoon, central London was packed with thousands of people waving mostly Union Jacks, as well as St. George flags. Some Scottish Saltires and Welsh flags were also seen, the BBC reported.