Increased Police Presence Enforces Conditions on Asylum Hotel Protests in London, Newcastle

The Metropolitan Police have announced an increased police presence and imposed strict conditions for protests surrounding the use of hotels to accommodate asylum seekers in London. A protest organized by local residents against the use of the Thistle City Barbican Hotel in Islington will be met with a counter protest led by Stand Up To Racism and supported by figures including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. Police noted that the anti-asylum protest has been endorsed by groups from outside the local community, potentially increasing attendance. Conditions restrict assembly times and locations to ensure safety, with officers prepared to respond to any related protests at other hotels. Additionally, a separate protest erupted near Heathrow airport at the Stanwell Hotel after the Home Office changed its asylum seeker accommodation plans to house only male asylum seekers, drawing local opposition and police monitoring. Authorities emphasize their commitment to policing without bias while safeguarding the right to peaceful protest.