Richard Tice Criticizes Hard-Left Protesters Disrupting Reform UK Event in York

Richard Tice, the leader of Reform UK, has condemned the actions of a hard-left protest group that sought to obstruct a political event in York. He was scheduled to speak at a local pub to inaugurate the new Reform UK society at the University of York, but the event had to be moved last minute due to intimidation from a radical pro-Palestine organization.

The pressures stemmed from a protest organized as a "say no to hate" rally, aimed at shutting down the democratic gathering. The coalition known as York Action for Solidarity reported that more than 500 university affiliates had signed an open letter against the establishment of Reform UK's student branch, accusing the party of marginalizing communities and creating societal divisions. They urged the university and student union to protect students from what they deemed harassment and intolerance.

During the protest, tactics were employed that suggested an expectation of conflict, including advice to attendees to wear masks and obscure their identities in photos. Tice recounted an incident where protesters attempted to open a car door they believed he was inside, causing alarm among staff. He described the actions of the protesters as reminiscent of Antifa behavior, aimed at instilling fear to suppress free speech.

Despite the disruption, Tice praised the pub’s owner and law enforcement for ensuring the event's success, highlighting a “wonderful inaugural” meeting. Social media activity from opposing groups included mockery of the event and calls for protestors to prepare for demonstrations, including suggestions that they bring eggs and references to prior incidents involving political figures being doused with drinks. The launch of the Reform UK society at York marks its expansion, following similar initiatives at Durham and Exeter universities.