Far-right group Britain First will visit Birmingham today for a political demonstration, despite being told they 'are not welcome' by the Council. The group will hold a demonstration in the city centre to 'demand political action', expecting thousands to attend. The news quickly sparked a counter-protest from several groups, which will begin today from 11am.
What is happening?
Today (June 20), Britain First will head to Birmingham city centre to 'demand political action'. The far-right group said they expect thousands of 'Britain First patriots' to visit the Second City as a way to 'take our country back'. News of the group coming to Brum resulted in a big counter-protest being organised, which will also take place today.
Why is it happening?
A Britain First summary of their reason for the protest said: 'With the slaughter of Henry Nowak and the attempted beheading of a British man in Belfast hanging over the nation, it's time we all took determined political action. We urge all patriots to join us in Birmingham next Saturday (June 20) midday.' A counter-protest summary said: 'On Saturday 20 June, the far right hate group Britain First plans to bring its message to Birmingham calling for "Remigration and mass deportations". This is a thinly veiled threat to half the population of Birmingham. This isn't ignorance- it's dangerous, white supremacist bigotry.'
Where is it happening?
The Britain First demonstration will begin at approximately 12pm. There is expected to be disruption in the area of New Street Station. Alternatively, the counter-protest will begin one hour earlier at 11am and will be located in Victoria Square. While there were reports of another counter-protest on Soho Road, West Midlands Police confirmed this was inaccurate and there is no action taking place there.
What the Council said
New Birmingham City Council leader Roger Harmer sent a clear message about the demonstration and said Britain First 'are not welcome here'. Yesterday (June 19), the Liberal Democrat councillor released a joint statement along with Coun Julien Pritchard (Deputy Leader, Greens), Coun Jane Baston (Cabinet Member for Equalities Communities and Social Justice, Greens) and Coun Harris Khaliq (Cabinet Member for City Services and Digital, Better Birmingham Independents Group). Cllr Harmer said: 'This weekend, Britain First plan to come to Birmingham to promote messages that seek to divide our communities. My cabinet and I are clear: Britain First are not welcome here. Their views do not represent our city.'
What the Police said
West Midlands Police expect a significant number of protestors and counter-protestors in the city. Public safety will be a priority with police delivering a warning to anyone causing criminal behaviour. A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: 'Our priority is public safety; we will facilitate peaceful demonstration but will intervene appropriately should any behaviour constitute criminality. Our plans for the protests on Saturday have been put into place based on intelligence, engagement with organisers, local businesses, and community feedback. We have worked closely with our local authority and highways colleagues to try and minimise any wider disruption to the city centre, including businesses and the transport network.'
