Starmer defends right to 'peaceful protest', after backlash over far-right march

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said people have a right to peaceful protest after over 100,000 demonstrators joined a far-right march against immigration through London on Saturday, amid backlash that the leader is not doing enough to curb attacks by the far-right.

Starmer also condemned assaults on police and said Britain was built on tolerance and diversity.

"People have a right to peaceful protest. It is core to our country's values," Starmer said on X on Sunday.

"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."

Far-right activist Tommy Robinson organised a march attended by around 110,000 people on Saturday. Police said 26 officers were injured, while they made an initial 25 arrests with more expected to follow.

Immigration has become the dominant political issue in Britain, eclipsing concerns over a faltering economy, as the country faces a record number of asylum claims. More than 28,000 migrants have arrived in small boats across the Channel so far this year.

Many of those attending the march waved red and white English flags as well as the Union Jack flag representing the whole of the UK.

"Britain is a nation proudly built on tolerance, diversity and respect," Starmer added.

"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."

The size of the turnout appeared to surprise police, who said the rally was at times too big to fit into its approved route, and officers faced "unacceptable violence", as they were kicked and punched and bottles and other projectiles were thrown. 

This comes as the Met Police continue to arrest hundreds of peaceful pro-Palestine supporters protesting in London in support of the now-banned group Palestine Action.

The Prime Minister has been called by his fellow Labour MPS and the UK's largest anti-fascist campaign group, Hope Not Hate, to take a firmer stance against the growing far right.