Keir Starmer emphasized that Britain will never allow individuals who exploit the national flag to incite violence, fear, and division to prevail. The Prime Minister reiterated that the flag symbolizes the diversity of the country and that he will not tolerate any form of intimidation based on ethnicity or skin color.
This statement follows a large nationalist demonstration, attended by an estimated 110,000 to 150,000 people, organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, faced criticism for his remarks at the London event, where he warned of impending violence and urged the crowd to fight back.
In response to the march, Starmer affirmed the right to peaceful protest as a fundamental value of the country but condemned any actions that target police officers or intimidate individuals due to their background or skin color. He asserted that Britain is founded on principles of tolerance, diversity, and respect, and the flag represents the nation’s diversity, not violence or division.
According to the Metropolitan Police, 24 individuals were arrested, and 26 police officers were injured, with four sustaining serious injuries during the London event. Arrests were made for various offenses, including affray, violent disorder, assault, and criminal damage.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle criticized Musk’s comments, labeling them as incomprehensible and inappropriate. Kyle acknowledged the majority of protesters exercising their rights peacefully but condemned the minority involved in violent acts against the police, emphasizing accountability.
Kyle also expressed concern over the growing disunity in communities, attributing it to underlying grievances stemming from past economic crises. He urged public officials to address these societal concerns and emphasized the need to reconcile and unite communities, particularly regarding immigration issues.
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey denounced Musk for inciting violence and called for bipartisan condemnation of such reckless rhetoric that undermines democracy. Davey stressed the importance of national unity in the face of attempts to destabilize the democratic process.