A SCOTTISH far-right movement has been accused of trying to boost its numbers by capitalising on publicity calling for the release from jail of former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson.
The claim was made by Unite Against Fascism Scotland (UAF) ahead of a demonstration by the Scottish Defence League (SDL) in Glasgow’s George Square tomorrow.
READ MORE: Far-right hate must be challenged every time
READ MORE: Tommy Robinson jailed for 13 months
UAF is mobilising a counter-demonstration, which it says has broad support from major trade unions, pro-refugee campaigns and anti-racism groups. A UAF spokesman said: “The SDL are attempting to mobilise on the back of the far-right ‘Free Tommy Robinson’ movement that managed to put an unprecedented number of racists and Nazis on to the streets of London on June 9. Up to 15,000 racists joined forces from various Nazi and racist organisations, including Football Lads Alliance, Ukip and the EDL [English Defence League]. Tommy Robinson leader has managed to act as a lightning rod for various groups on the far-right to rally behind.
“The SDL called their Glasgow protest on the back of this resurgent far-right protest in London. It hopes to rebuild its ailing numbers in Scotland using the same Islamophobic scapegoating used by the ‘Free Tommy Robinson’ street movement.”
John McFadden, chairman of Unite Against Fascism Scotland, added: “Once again the fascist thugs of the SDL are intent on desecrating Glasgow’s historic George square with their hate fuelled racist bile and Nazi salutes. They are clearly hoping to build a street gang emboldened by the numbers on the far right mobilising in London to demand the release of ‘Tommy Robinson’.”
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was jailed for 13 months in May after admitting contempt of court by potentially prejudicing a case in Leeds.
The SDL said tomorrow’s demonstration is a protest against “grooming gangs” and in support of free speech.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel