Sir Mark Rowley KCMG QPM
Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis
New Scotland Yard
Victoria Embankment
London SW1A 2JL
26th August 2026
Subject: Formal Objection to the Planned March along Edgware Road on Saturday, 29th August
Dear Commissioner,
I am writing to formally voice my deep concern and strong objection regarding the planned demonstration scheduled for this Saturday, 29th August, along Edgware Road.
As noted in my recent public statement (Edgware Road under Siege from the Right), Edgware Road is the vibrant heart of London’s Middle Eastern community, home to countless local businesses, residents, and visitors who contribute immensely to the social and economic fabric of West Central London. The organisers of this march—namely UKIP and associated far-right elements led by figures seeking to spread Islamophobic sentiment—have intentionally targeted this specific neighbourhood to incite hostility, whip up violence, and intimidate local residents and shopkeepers.
Their lack of local understanding is evidenced by their vague logistical planning, yet their intent to provoke a diverse, peaceful community is unmistakable.
West London has a proud history of standing united against hatred and intimidation. Nearly fifty years ago in Paddington, our local community made it clear that fascism had no place on our streets when they rejected the National Front. The threat posed by this Saturday’s march risks rekindling that same public disorder and causing severe disruption to local trade, residents, and social cohesion at a time when local communities are already facing heightened tensions.
Under the provisions of the Public Order Act 1986, the Metropolitan Police have a duty to prevent serious public disorder, serious disruption to the life of the community, and the intimidation of local residents. I strongly urge you and your senior officers to:
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Exercise your statutory powers to place robust restrictions on the route, timing, and assembly points of this march to keep it away from sensitive commercial and residential hubs along Edgware Road.
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Consider prohibiting the march entirely under Section 13 of the Public Order Act if the risk of serious public disorder and community intimidation cannot be mitigated.
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Ensure a comprehensive policing strategy is deployed to safeguard local Middle Eastern-owned businesses, residents, and shoppers against harassment or violence.
Edgware Road must not be left vulnerable to targeted intimidation under the guise of public demonstration. I trust you will take immediate action to protect our local community and maintain public peace this weekend.
I look forward to hearing your response regarding the measures being put in place.
Yours sincerely,
Murad Qureshi
Former Member of the London Assembly