The News Agents What do the Epping Protests tell us about 'civil disobedience' in the UK?
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Jul 28, 2025 
Andy Hughes, a crime correspondent for LBC and host of The Crime Agents podcast, shares on-the-ground insights from the escalating anti-migrant protests in Epping. He discusses community tensions and the polarizing role of far-right groups, exploring the thin line between legitimate concerns and exploitation. Chelsea Jarvie, a cybersecurity expert, delves into the complexities of the Online Safety Act, questioning its effectiveness and the unintended consequences for online privacy. Together, they tackle pressing issues of civil disobedience, safety, and societal division.
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Complex Roots of Epping Protests
- The Epping protests reveal tensions where local concerns about safety mix with far-right manipulation. - These demonstrations blend genuine worries and orchestrated misinformation, complicating community cohesion.
Interview with Far-Right Protester
- Andy Hughes met Callum Barker of the Homeland Party, who denied being a Nazi despite his group's extremist actions. - Most protesters were locals concerned for safety, not far-right extremists.
Far-Right Exploits Local Fears
- Far-right groups exploit local fears to amplify unrest by spreading misinformation online. - Genuine concerns get conflated with extremist agendas, making community responses more polarized.