Hawksmoor staff requested Tommy Robinson to leave the Air Street restaurant, citing staff discomfort. Robinson and his party were removed on June 5.
According to The Sun, Tommy Robinson, also known as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was asked to leave Hawksmoor Air Street in London while dining with a group that included former English Defence League (EDL) associate Guramit Singh Kalirai. A staff member informed the group that their presence made some employees "uncomfortable" and offered to cover the drinks bill. Robinson and Kalirai remained calm during the incident, which was recorded and later published online by Kalirai to highlight what they described as political discrimination.
LBC reported that the party had completed their starters and were mid-meal when approached by management. The restaurant's manager said: "We have a duty of care to our members of staff," but did not specify any behavior on Robinson’s part that prompted the discomfort. Kalirai, a British Sikh, questioned if race played a role in the decision, which the manager firmly denied.
Robinson is a British activist known for his outspoken views on issues related to Islam and immigration. He founded the EDL in 2009, aiming to protest against what he perceived as the rise of Islamic extremism in the UK. Robinson has been a polarizing figure, with supporters praising his advocacy for free speech and critics accusing him of promoting divisive rhetoric. His activities have sparked debates on the limits of free expression and the challenges of addressing extremism in a democratic society. According to The Guardian, Robinson's actions have led to both significant support and widespread condemnation, reflecting the complex nature of his public persona.