Britain will not surrender its flag to those who wish to use it as a symbol of violence, fear and division, Sir Keir Starmer has said.
The prime minister said the flag represents "our diverse country" and he will not allow people to feel intimidated on "our streets because of their background or the colour of their skin".
His comments come after more than 150,000 people took to the streets of central London for a "Unite the Kingdom" march organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, and about 5,000 took part in a counter-protest, co-ordinated by Stand Up To Racism.
Earlier, Business Secretary Peter Kyle said marchers were "demonstrating freedom of association and freedom of speech".
The prime minister said on Sunday afternoon: "People have a right to peaceful protest. It is core to our country's values.
