Footage obtained by Stand Up to Racism can exclusively reveal that Orla Minihane, vice-chair of Epping Forest Reform UK and Reform UK election candidate, shared a stage with member of neo-Nazi group at a recent Epping protest against refugees being housed in the Bell Hotel. >>> YouTube
Above: The footage from a protest on 17 July also shows Minihane saying if “I’ve got to wear a far right title then so be it.”
Image caption: Fascist Mark Collett shared Epping Forest Reform UK vice-chair Orla Minihane’s speech outside the Bell Hotel in Epping
Minihane is vice-chair of Epping Forest Reform UK and a leading figure in the protests against the Bell hotel. The video shows Minihane speaking on stage and sharing a megaphone with Callum Barker. Stand Up to Racism this week exclusively revealed that Barker was a member of neo-Nazi group Homeland, and himself has been a key organiser the Epping protests.
The speech was shared and celebrated by prominent neo-Nazis including Mark Collett and Homeland themselves. It suggests that local Reform UK officials are prepared to work with a known fascist activist to organise the protests at Epping.
Image caption: Orla Minihane Instagram profile
Weyman Bennett, co-convenor of Stand Up to Racism, said:
“The footage we have obtained shows beyond doubt that Reform UK are teaming up with neo-Nazi in Epping. They are prepared to share a stage and use the same megaphone as people who admire Hitler and promote antisemitic conspiracy theories. This is what Nigel Farage has given cover to with his recent statements. Enough is enough – we have to stop reform UK and the links they have too far out activists.”
Sabby, co-convenor of Stand Up to Racism, said:
“Reform UK, nationally and locally, is supporting actions led by Neo Nazis targeting asylum seekers at The Bell Hotel in Epping. Meanwhile Reform UK spreading lies claiming the police bussed in anti-racists to protest in Epping. We must unite and mobilise against the far right on the streets and at the ballot box.”
Stop the far right in Epping – assemble 2pm Sunday 27th July, Epping underground station