Thousands Gather in London Protest Against UK Spending Cuts

Thousands of protesters, including trade unionists, campaigners, and activists, gathered in central London for a large demonstration organized by The People’s Assembly to oppose government spending cuts and welfare reforms that they say disproportionately affect the poorest in society. The protest, held under the banner "No to Austerity 2.0," featured a march from central London to Whitehall, culminating in a rally with speeches from MPs Jeremy Corbyn and Diane Abbott, trade union leaders, disability rights activists, and anti-poverty campaigners. The demonstrators criticized government measures such as scrapping winter fuel payments, maintaining the two-child benefit cap, cutting welfare eligibility, reducing foreign aid, and increasing defense spending, arguing these policies worsen poverty, mental health, and public service funding crises. The People's Assembly spokesperson argued for taxing the rich and investing in public services, fair pay, and the NHS as real tough choices. The protest also addressed the rising threat from far-right groups and called for better care for vulnerable populations, an end to child poverty, and improvements in education, welfare, and refugee support. The event unified diverse groups, including those advocating for health, disability, housing, and welfare rights, in a message against austerity and for social justice.