Far-right marches led by the self-styled “Danny Tommo” should not be treated like normal protests, according to Angela Rayner, the communities secretary, who described them as intimidatory and called for them to be banned. Rayner’s intervention comes after weeks of demonstrations that have blocked roads and transport hubs across the UK.
Rayner: Far-Right Marches Are Intimidation, Not Protest
Rayner said the behaviour of some masked marchers – who have blocked roads and transport hubs – was not an acceptable form of protest. “When you see hundreds of predominantly men in black wearing black face masks shouting, going down the street, that is intimidating,” she said. “Whether you agree with the message or not, it’s intimidating.”
She added: “It is not a protest. I’ve been on many protests myself when I was in my union days. We have music, we have banners, but we don’t wear balaclavas and shout divisive rhetoric down the street. There’s a line, and I think organising to disrupt and cordon off areas to stop people going through public highways, this is all behaviour that is intimidatory and is not acceptable.”
The Rise of Patriot Platform and Danny Tommo
Daniel Thomas, the instigator of the marches over the past month, was arrested and charged last week after allegedly using a blade to slash an inflatable dinghy in the Channel while a rescue worker was onboard. Thomas has recently brought dozens of nationalist protest groups together under the umbrella name of Patriot Platform. Masked and hooded anti-migrant activists from the movement have convened in several cities, leading to confrontations with police and counter-protesters.
Key Takeaways
- Angela Rayner says far-right marches are intimidatory and should not be permitted.
- Daniel Thomas, known as “Danny Tommo”, faces charges after an incident in the Channel.
- Patriot Platform unites multiple nationalist groups under one banner.
- Rayner distinguishes between traditional protests and masked, disruptive marches.
- The debate raises questions about the limits of protest rights in the UK.
Comparing Protest Styles: Traditional vs. Far-Right Marches
The table below contrasts the characteristics of traditional protests, as described by Rayner, with the far-right marches that have taken place recently.
| Feature | Traditional Protests | Far-Right Marches |
|---|---|---|
| Attire | Everyday clothing, banners | Black clothing, balaclavas, masks |
| Behaviour | Music, chanting, speeches | Shouting divisive rhetoric, blocking roads |
| Intent | Peaceful demonstration | Intimidation, disruption |
| Public Impact | Generally tolerated | Frightens local people, disrupts transport |
Legal and Social Implications
Rayner’s comments raise important questions about how the UK balances the right to protest with public order. Under current legislation, police have powers to impose conditions on protests if they believe they may cause serious disruption or intimidation. However, banning a march outright requires evidence that it poses a significant risk.
Critics argue that banning far-right marches could set a precedent for suppressing unpopular views. Supporters of Rayner’s stance contend that the masked, aggressive nature of these marches crosses a line into intimidation, which is not protected by the right to protest.
FAQ
What did Angela Rayner say about far-right marches?
Rayner described far-right marches as intimidatory and said they should not be allowed, distinguishing them from traditional protests.
Who is Danny Tommo?
Danny Tommo is the self-styled nickname of Daniel Thomas, who has organised far-right marches and was recently arrested and charged after an incident in the Channel.
What is Patriot Platform?
Patriot Platform is an umbrella group that unites dozens of nationalist protest groups under one name, according to reports.
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