Protesters Rally in Oxford Over Tommy Robinson Islam Debate

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Oxford: Hundreds of protesters gathered in central Oxford on Tuesday as far-right activist Tommy Robinson took part in a controversial debate on Islam at the Oxford Union.

Robinson spoke in support of the motion that "The West is right to be suspicious of Islam" during a debate that also featured Laurence Fox. The event had previously been postponed over security concerns.

Demonstrators chanted anti-fascist slogans and carried placards condemning racism and the decision to host the debate. Some protesters also criticised Robinson over his recent visit to Russia, displaying signs linking him to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Oxford Union, an independent debating society with a long history of hosting prominent public figures, has previously welcomed speakers ranging from Malcolm X to Dalai Lama and Queen Elizabeth II.

The protest highlighted continuing divisions over free speech, immigration and Islam in Britain ahead of a closely watched political period.

Pic Credit: AFP