Union leader & antiracists condemn violence following far right ‘Free Tommy Robinson’ rally
Tommy Robinson’s supporters went on the rampage after their ‘free Tommy’ rally in Central London today with the RMT unions Steve Hedley violently assaulted along with other union members, a women bus driver abused for wearing a headscarf and other acts of random violence.
The rally was in support of the ex English Defence League leader recently jailed for contempt of court.
RMT General Secretary Mick Cash said. “A group of RMT members who had been involved in a peaceful protest in Central London have been subjected to a cowardly and unprovoked attack by fascist supporters of Tommy Robinson. A number of our members and officials have sustained injuries and the union is providing full support to those caught in this despicable act of pre-meditated violence. “
The pro-Robinson demo drew some 6000 but was far smaller than a previous event in June. The rally was opposed by thousands of anti-racists who joined a counter demo called by Stand Up To Racism and Unite Against Fascism.
Weyman Bennett, Stand Up To Racism Co-Convenor said: ‘While anti-racists joined peaceful protest Robinson’s thugs were once again let off the leash’.
‘This follows their assaults on anti-racists and police officers following their previous rally on 9 June’
‘Their targets, trade unionists and. Muslim women, says everything about what this movement is about’
‘Where ever Robinson’s supporters and the far right mobilise Stand Up To Racism and Unite Against Fascism will Stand with trade unionists and faith groups to oppose them’.