Tommy Robinson Holds Christmas Rally as Controversy Continues

Far-Right Activist Stages Christmas Event in Central London

Around 1,000 people gathered in London on Saturday for a “Christmas” rally organised by far-right figurehead Tommy Robinson, as bishops said they were gravely concerned by the use of Christian symbols to “justify racism and anti-migrant rhetoric”. The event, which took place in central London on 14 December 2025, marked Robinson’s latest public appearance following his recent release from prison.

Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has been a prominent figure in Britain’s far-right movement for over a decade. He co-founded the English Defence League (EDL) in 2009 and led it until October 2013. His activism focuses primarily on anti-immigration and anti-Islam positions, making him one of the UK’s most controversial political figures.

Recent Legal Developments and Prison Release

Seven months into serving his sentence, Robinson was released early from HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes on 27 May 2025. His imprisonment stemmed from contempt of court charges related to false claims he made about a Syrian refugee. Earlier in the year, far-right activist Tommy Robinson was cleared on Tuesday of committing an offence under British counterterrorism laws after refusing to give police his phone’s passcode during a July 2024 border stop.

After the verdict, Robinson thanked billionaire Elon Musk, who he said funded his defence. The tech billionaire has become an increasingly vocal supporter of Robinson, with Musk posting messages calling for Robinson’s release during his imprisonment and appearing at Robinson rallies via video link.

September Rally and Recent Activities

Robinson organised a significant demonstration earlier this year. A London march organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson drew more than 110,000 people and became unruly on Saturday as a small group of his supporters clashed with police officers who were separating them from counterprotesters. Twenty six police officers were injured — four who were seriously hurt, including broken teeth and a concussion, a possible broken nose and a spinal injury.

The recent Christmas event drew a considerably smaller crowd, with today’s turnout was much more modest, numbering hundreds rather than thousands. Critics, including church leaders, have questioned Robinson’s motives, with The Bishop of Manchester, David Walker, dismissed Robinson’s rhetoric as a “dim culture war” stunt.

Significance for British Politics and Society

Robinson’s activities continue to spark debate about free speech, immigration, and far-right extremism in the United Kingdom. His rallies attract both supporters who view him as defending British culture and critics who condemn his anti-immigration stance. The involvement of prominent international figures like Elon Musk has elevated Robinson’s profile and raised questions about foreign influence in British political discourse. As the country grapples with immigration policy and social cohesion, Robinson remains a polarising figure whose actions generate significant public attention and concern from authorities and religious leaders alike.