On the ground with Tommy Robinson’s new supporters

This episode of Today in Focus examines the developments of far-right movements in Britain, particularly in the context of recent protests against asylum seekers. The narrator, Helen Pidd, begins her journey at a protest in Stockport, where she encounters demonstrators voicing explicit anti-immigrant sentiments under the guise of 'concerned parents.' As she interacts with various participants, a clear narrative emerges: many feel sidelined by government policies and believe that asylum seekers threaten their communities, despite official accounts disputing many alleged incidents.

The episode transitions into a broader discussion about an upcoming rally organized by Tommy Robinson, who claims it will be the largest free speech demonstration in British history. As the protests grow, Pidd highlights how the language used by participants has shifted—what was once considered taboo is now openly expressed. Experts weigh in, suggesting that while many protesters deny being far-right, their rhetoric aligns with nationalist and anti-immigrant sentiments common to far-right politics.

The episode culminates in a detailed account of the rally in London, which exceeded expectations in turnout, demonstrating significant support for Robinson's anti-immigration stance. Observations during the rally illustrate a coalition of disaffected citizens who may not identify as politically right-wing but whose frustrations have drawn them into this new political landscape. As the episode concludes, a poignant question remains: have these movements begun to normalize far-right ideologies within mainstream discourse?