Overview

• Dozens of coordinated ‘Abolish Asylum System’ rallies were staged across England, Scotland and Wales, with Stand Up To Racism counter-protests in multiple cities.
• Police deployed mounted units and public-order powers, authorising a dispersal zone in Bristol until 7am Sunday, as scuffles were reported in several locations.
• Merseyside Police made 11 arrests in Liverpool for offences including assault and affray, and Avon and Somerset Police arrested one person in Bristol while reporting no serious officer injuries.
• The High Court’s injunction ordering asylum seekers removed from Epping’s Bell Hotel by 12 September remains in force as ministers move to appeal, and other councils explore similar legal routes.
• Charities report intimidation and fear among people housed in hotels as official data show about 32,000 are in such accommodation, and Reform UK’s Nigel Farage set out plans calling for mass deportations.