On Saturday, 21 February 2026, the far-right group Britain First held a "March for Remigration" in Manchester city centre, calling for mass deportations. The event was met with significant counter-protests and led to several arrests.

 

Britain First Manchester March for remigration

On Saturday, 21 February 2026, the far-right group Britain First held a "March for Remigration" in Manchester city centre, calling for mass deportations. The event was met with significant counter-protests and led to several arrests.

 

Event Overview

The March: Supporters gathered outside Manchester Piccadilly station around noon. The procession was delayed by over an hour as police held the group in a tunnel under the station before they were allowed to move just after 1:00 PM.

Counter-Protests: Hundreds of counter-protesters from groups like Stand Up To Racism Manchester and the Resist Britain First coalition held a separate rally in Piccadilly Gardens.

Key Speakers: Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn addressed the counter-demonstration, alongside Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig, who stated the city "does not welcome" the far-right group.

 

Police Response and Incidents

Arrests: Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed 11 arrests during the day. Offences included public order breaches, assault on an emergency worker, and breach of peace.

Dispersal Order: A 10-hour section 34 dispersal order was implemented across the city centre, granting officers extra powers to remove individuals suspected of causing harassment or anti-social behavior.

Clashes: Reports indicated "ugly scenes" with physical altercations breaking out between opposing groups and clashes with police as anti-racism protesters attempted to block the march's path.

 

City Reaction

The march took place on a busy Saturday, coinciding with a Manchester City home match and major rail disruption at Piccadilly station. Local leaders and residents used the Manchester Evening News and social media to emphasize that the city remains unified against hate