In March 2026, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called for a ban on "all mass religious observances" in public spaces following a large-scale Islamic prayer event held in London's Trafalgar Square.

 

Nigel Farage calls for 'all mass religious events' to be 'banned'

In March 2026, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called for a ban on "all mass religious observances" in public spaces following a large-scale Islamic prayer event held in London's Trafalgar Square.

 

Key Details of Farage's Statement

The Catalyst: Farage's comments were triggered by an "Open Iftar" event in Trafalgar Square attended by approximately 3,000 people, including Mayor of London Sadiq Khan.

His Stance: Speaking at his party's Scottish conference, Farage described such events as an "attempt to overtake, intimidate and dominate our way of life".

Scope of the Ban: When specifically asked by the Press Association if he favored banning all mass religious observances, including Jewish or Catholic ones, Farage replied, "Yes".

Justification: He argued that while private prayer should remain free, mass public demonstrations in "historic British sites" are provocative and noted that mass prayer is banned in some Middle Eastern countries.

 

Government and Political Response

UK Government: Dismissed the calls immediately. Scotland Office minister Kirsty McNeill stated the government is "absolutely not" considering a ban, emphasizing that religious diversity and freedom of worship are welcomed in the UK.

Scottish Government: First Minister John Swinney also rejected the proposal, stating he wants to live in a country tolerant of all people's faiths.

Political Context: The row began earlier in the week when Conservative shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy described the Iftar as an "act of domination," a view supported by Tory leader Kemi Badenoch but condemned by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.