Brighton could be the focus for another far-right march this year, despite the huge disruption caused by the last one.
The South East Alliance has announced its plans to hold a march in the city on November 20.
It follows the March for England which took place on April 21 and involved the largest police operation for several years.
Violence erupted between members of the march and anti-fascist groups, leaving several people injured and a nurse facing possible blindness after she was struck by a missile.
A message on the South East Alliance Facebook page reads: “Our event in Brighton for St George’s Day was rudely interrupted by those of the UAF and ANTIFA.
“Now we plan to return to Brighton on St Edmund’s Day to celebrate our true nation’s saint.
“This time the Swampys of the left won’t be invited, but no doubt they'll gatecrash it. Will you return to Brighton to celebrate on November 20?”
Politicians say they are looking at ways to minimise the huge disruption and cost to the taxpayer through the huge police presence.
MPs' concern
Brighton Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas said she is to discuss the issue on Friday with Chief Superintendent Nev Kemp, the new police commander for Brighton and Hove.
Hove MP Mike Weatherley said: “I am concerned that residents of the city are having to foot the bill for these demonstrations, which is why I have written to the Home Secretary to ask for a discretionary fund to be made available to contribute towards the enormous costs of policing such events.
“It has been particularly troubling to hear from local businesses who lost a whole day’s trade as they were forced to shut up shop.
Consider traders
“Whatever happens, next time I would urge the council to put the consideration of traders before marchers when planning a route.”
Brighton and Hove City Council leader Jason Kitcat said: “There are legal reasons why local authorities can’t ban marches.
“Any decision to not allow a march to take place has to be taken by Sussex Police, based on public order and safety grounds, not on whether we agree or disagree with the views of those marching or demonstrating.”
Talking point
Why do you think marchers choose to come to Brighton and Hove? Should the march go ahead?
Share your views by commenting below or write in to The Argus letters pages: letters@theargus.co.uk
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