Britain First invites ‘loyal patriots’ to city rally

Party leader Paul Golding, 41, who has been convicted twice for his activities, spoke at the event on February 7.

Britain First has sent out a confidential email to people who may be interested in attending the event.

It says: “Britain First will hold a friendly regional meeting on the south coast (in Southampton).

“Party leader Paul Golding, Ashley Simon and other leaders are present. Come and meet other dedicated patriots in your area.

“After you confirm your participation, you will receive the meeting place and time via SMS and email.

“Do not share or post this email on social media – it is for your eyes only. Do not share the information contained in this letter with anyone. Please treat the contents of this e-mail confidentially.”

Satvir Kaur, City Council Chairman, said: “Southampton is a proud, diverse city – it is this diversity that makes us modern, dynamic, talented, creative, skilled and more.

“There is no place for hate in our communities.

“All political discussions must be peaceful, and efforts must be made to bring people together, not divide.”

Britain First is a political party founded in 2011 by former members of the British National Party (BNP).

She opposes multiculturalism and what she sees as the Islamization of the UK and seeks to preserve traditional British culture.

In 2017, Britain First was deregistered by the Electoral Commission for not re-registering on time, but was re-registered in 2021.

Royston Smith, Conservative MP for Southampton-Itchen, said: “Britain First can do whatever it wants as long as it stays within the law.

“While I disagree with everything you say, you have the right to say it.

“Freedom of speech is a fundamental right. As long as they do not incite hatred or violence, they are free to express their views publicly or elsewhere.”

One person who received the email but did not plan to travel said: “This is the first major gathering of this group in the region and it will be held in secret.

“Southampton is a diverse city and doesn’t need Britain first.”