Tommy Robinson Defies Court Ban, Screens Film at Trafalgar Square Rally
Tommy Robinson, the controversial far-right figure, could be facing jail time after defying a court ban by screening a prohibited documentary at a rally in Trafalgar Square yesterday. The event saw thousands of his supporters gather, leading to violent clashes and nine arrests.
The documentary, titled “Silenced,” depicts an incident where Syrian refugee Jamal Hijazi was assaulted by another student at Almondbury Community School in Huddersfield. Despite a judge’s ruling that broadcasting the film would be contempt of court, Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, proceeded with the screening. He later taunted authorities on social media, daring them to take him to court. He wrote, “I’ll be jailed for two years for showing the inconceivable truth.”
Already scheduled to appear before the High Court on Tuesday for contempt charges related to the same film, Robinson’s latest defiance only adds to his legal woes. His actions at the rally were a direct violation of the injunction that forbids him from repeating the claims made in the documentary.
The Metropolitan Police were heavily deployed, with 1,000 officers on duty to manage the situation and keep opposing groups apart. The day was marked by significant violence, including an incident where an anti-racism protester was attacked by Robinson’s supporters, resulting in two arrests for grievous bodily harm (GBH). Four more individuals were arrested on suspicion of assaulting emergency workers, and other public order offences were also noted.
In a counter-protest organised by Stand Up To Racism and supported by various trade unions, activists gathered in Whitehall. Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn addressed the crowd, emphasising the need to unite against the rise of far-right extremism.
At the same time, a Trans Pride march was also taking place in central London, adding to the complexity of the day’s events. The police had imposed strict conditions under the Public Order Act to prevent serious disorder and ensure safety.
Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove commented, “Our first priority is to keep the peace and ensure that those exercising their right to lawful protest can do so safely.” The extensive police presence aimed to prevent any escalation of violence between the various groups.
Tommy Robinson, named the rally ‘Uniting The Kingdom,’ and it featured nationalistic chants and anti-Islamic rhetoric. During his speech, Robinson criticised various issues, including the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony and alleged Islamic grooming gangs, further stoking tensions.
For further information and updates, you can visit the Metropolitan Police’s official Twitter page.
Image: Wikimedia Commons
