Angela Rayner Condemns Far-Right Marches and Port Blockades

Communities Secretary Angela Rayner condemned far-right marches organized by the Patriot Platform, stating the demonstrations constitute intimidation rather than legitimate protest. Rayner criticized the use of black face masks and the blocking of public highways and transport hubs, arguing that organizing to disrupt public access is unacceptable behavior.

The marches have targeted English coastal towns and ports, including the port of Dover, where activists blocked traffic. Rayner specifically denounced the targeting of Royal National Lifeboat Institution volunteers on social media, noting that attacking those who save lives at sea is unacceptable, especially following the recent deaths of a child and two women in the English Channel.

The demonstrations were led by Daniel Thomas, who was recently arrested and charged for allegedly slashing an inflatable dinghy in the English Channel while a rescue worker was onboard.