Kenneth Glad
Large demonstrations are set to test police resources in the capital. Officials say security planning is focused on protecting communities while preserving the right to protest.
London is preparing for a major weekend operation as several demonstrations are due to take place on Saturday, including the Unite the Kingdom march and a separate pro-Palestine protest joined by Stand Up to Racism.
The Prime Minister’s Office, 10 Downing Street, said via gov.uk that 11 foreign nationals described by the government as far-right agitators had been blocked from entering the UK before the march.
Officials identified one of them as US-based Valentina Gomez, whom ministers described as known for inflammatory rhetoric about Muslim communities.
Rival marches
Large gatherings taking place on the same day can place heavy demands on police, especially when officers must manage separate crowds, protect nearby communities and respond quickly to disorder.
During a visit to the Metropolitan Police’s Command and Control Special Operations Room, Prime Minister Keir Starmer was briefed on plans to deploy thousands of officers.
Police resources listed by officials include live facial recognition technology, helicopters, drones, dog units, mounted officers and armoured vehicles.
Courts on standby
People accused of inciting hatred could face arrest, the Metropolitan Police has indicated, including anyone using chants such as “globalise the intifada”.
Ministers also said prosecutors would work alongside police on charging decisions, while courts would open for longer to handle cases linked to violence.
That preparation follows £18 million in emergency government funding for the Met, which ministers said was intended to protect and reassure Jewish communities.
Line between protest and intimidation
Ahead of the marches, Starmer framed the weekend as a test of both public order and national values.
“We’re in a fight for the soul of this country, and the Unite the Kingdom march this weekend is a stark reminder of exactly what we are up against. Its organisers are peddling hatred and division, plain and simple.”
He added: “We will block those coming into the UK who seek to incite hatred and violence. For anyone who sets out to wreak havoc on our streets, to intimidate or threaten anyone, you can expect to face the full force of the law.”
Starmer also said: “My government will always champion peaceful protest but will act decisively against hatred.”
Source: Prime Minister’s Office, 10 Downing Street via gov.uk.
