Starmer Condemns Violence at 150,000-Strong London Far-Right Rally

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the use of the British flag as a symbol of violence, fear, and division by far-right protesters, affirming that the flag represents the country's diversity and tolerance. Starmer emphasized the right to peaceful protest but denounced assaults on police officers and intimidation based on background or skin color following a large far-right rally in London organized by Tommy Robinson, which attracted between 110,000 and 150,000 attendees alongside an estimated 5,000 counter-protesters. Business Secretary Peter Kyle highlighted the importance of freedom of speech and association while acknowledging societal divisions and the challenges in uniting communities. The protest saw 24 arrests and 26 police officers injured, including serious injuries to four officers. The event was marked by controversial involvement from Elon Musk, who addressed the crowd with warnings of impending violence and calls for political change. Starmer and government officials called for renewed efforts to address deep-rooted grievances and to bring communities together amid rising societal tensions.