“Where’s Your Tommy Gone?” – Chant Rings Out as Asylum Hotel Protests Erupt at Thistle Barbican Shoreditch

Overview

Protests over the government’s asylum accommodation policy have escalated in central London, with demonstrators and counter-protesters clashing outside the Thistle Barbican Shoreditch Hotel on Saturday.

The hotel, located in Barbican, has been at the centre of local controversy following the Home Office’s decision to house asylum seekers there. What began as a residents’ protest quickly turned into a heated standoff when far-right activist groups were confronted by anti-fascist counter-protesters.

Amid the tension, chants of “Where’s your Tommy gone? Far, far away!” echoed through the crowd — a mocking reference to far-right figure Tommy Robinson, whose absence from the protest was noted and jeered by counter-demonstrators.

Police Separate Clashing Groups

Police were forced to intervene and separate opposing groups after brief scuffles broke out. Officers maintained a visible and active presence outside the hotel to ensure public safety and prevent further clashes.

No arrests were reported, but a large crime scene cordon remains in place as authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Asylum Hotel Protests Shift to Central London

Previously concentrated in northern towns, asylum accommodation protests are now spilling into prestigious London postcodes, with Islington, Canary Wharf, and Epping becoming new flashpoints.

Locals, including Rachel, a mother of seven living near the Thistle Hotel, expressed concerns over antisocial behaviour, claiming she has witnessed “rubbish thrown from windows” and “lewd gestures” from individuals she believes are housed at the hotel. However, Metropolitan Police data shows that the area around the Thistle ranks ninth lowest out of 17 council wards for crime in Islington.

Misinformation and Social Media Fuelling Unrest

False claims circulating online have linked asylum seekers to recent crimes in other parts of the country, inflaming tensions. Police have confirmed that many of these assertions are unfounded, but the narrative continues to spread across social media platforms.

Counter-Protests Gaining Momentum

In response, counter-protesters and local activists have mobilised to push back against the anti-migrant rhetoric. Backed by Islington Labour Party members, a larger counter-protest is planned this weekend to challenge misinformation and stand in support of asylum seekers.

Council Urges Calm, Calls for Fact-Based Debate

An Islington Council spokesperson said:

“We are proud of our community’s record in resettling those in need. It is vital that discussions around asylum accommodation are based on facts, not misinformation and fearmongering.”

Police Maintain High Vigilance

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that officers remain stationed at protest hotspots, including the Thistle Barbican Shoreditch, to ensure public order is maintained as tensions remain high.