Hundreds Protest Across Essex, South West, Cardiff in National Strike

On May 24, widespread anti-government protests took place across various UK cities including Essex, Ripon, Swansea, Cardiff, and areas in Devon and Cornwall, organized under the banner of the Great British National Strike. Protesters expressed discontent with the Labour government, particularly targeting Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and raised issues such as illegal immigration, net zero policies, benefit cuts, and demands for inquiries into social justice concerns. In Essex, rallies occurred peacefully in Chelmsford, Colchester, and Southend-on-Sea, featuring both protesters and counter-protesters, with police maintaining order. Similarly, smaller peaceful gatherings were reported in Ripon, while in Swansea and Cardiff, campaigners protested against cuts to disability and welfare benefits, highlighting the impact on vulnerable individuals like those with long Covid. In Devon and Cornwall, hundreds participated in demonstrations and counter-protests in Plymouth, Exeter, and Truro, where police described the situation as tense but mostly peaceful, emphasizing their efforts to balance protest rights with public safety. These coordinated protests reflected national discontent with government policies and leadership, occurring alongside counter-demonstrations advocating for opposing views.