The Story The far-right party spreading ‘sensible nationalism’
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Jul 29, 2025 Tom Ball, a reporter for The Times covering migration and far-right movements in the UK, joins to discuss the recent surge of protests surrounding an asylum hotel in Epping. He highlights the growing influence of the far-right party Homeland, which claims to promote 'sensible nationalism.' The conversation dives into the socio-political dynamics driving these protests, the controversial tactics used by police, and the broader implications for UK politics amidst escalating tensions around immigration.
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Epping's Sociopolitical Landscape
- Epping is an affluent commuter town on the London-Essex border with a quiet, leafy atmosphere.
- It has been politically Conservative since 1974 but hosts some far-right activity historically.
Trigger and Scale of Protests
- Protests began after an Ethiopian asylum seeker was charged with sexual offences.
- Regular protests have drawn up to a thousand people, including local residents and counter-protesters.
Local Concerns Drive Protests
- Most protesters in Epping are local residents concerned about safety and the presence of migrants.
- The protests have attracted political attention, including from figures like Nigel Farage.