I’ve taken to calling Nigel Farage “Sir Oswald” lately, comparing him to Sir Oswald Mosley, leader of the British Union of Fascists in the 1930s. It’s a way to add a bit of humor to my feelings about the extremely right-wing MP for Clacton, given that Mosley is sometimes seen as a joke.
But perhaps the comparison should be taken more seriously. An article in the Jewish News, an updated version of a piece from 2016, features an interview with Willie Myers from Ilford, an anti-fascist activist in London during Mosley’s BUF era. Myers describes how Farage’s rhetoric, as the leader of UKIP at that time, reminded him of Mosley: “When I shut my eyes and listen, all I can see is Mosley staring back at me.”
There are indeed some notable similarities between the 1930s British fascist and the leader of Reform UK, Farage’s latest political endeavor:
– Both are skilled nationalist agitators who believe in defending a timeless British way of life against perceived threats.
– Both come from privileged backgrounds but claim to represent the masses.
– Both blame specific groups for Britain’s social and economic problems.
– Both advocate for British isolationism, with Farage championing Brexit.
– Both present themselves as truth-tellers who expose hidden information, even if it’s baseless speculation.
While there are differences between the two figures, some reflecting the different times they lived in, there are also concerning parallels in the rise of far-right violence and hate speech targeting immigrants and minorities in London today.
Mosley’s BUF, a successor to the New Party, grew in strength in the 1930s despite facing opposition, culminating in violent attacks on Jewish communities like the Mile End Pogrom. Mosley cleverly turned defeats like the Battle of Cable Street into propaganda victories, using rhetoric similar to that employed by today’s far-right figures.
While the methods and targets of far-right violence have evolved over the years, the underlying nativist and xenophobic sentiments remain consistent. Leaders like Farage stoke fear and resentment, contributing to a climate of hate and discrimination that can escalate into organized violence.
London has a history of confronting and resisting fascist movements, from Mosley’s BUF to more recent far-right groups like the National Front and British National Party. However, the threat of far-right violence persists, as seen in recent attacks on minority communities and the rise of parties like Reform UK.
Farage’s role in perpetuating divisive narratives and promoting nationalist agendas adds fuel to the fire of far-right extremism. While the violence has so far been contained to specific incidents, the underlying tensions and grievances remain unresolved, posing a continued risk to London’s diverse communities.
As London grapples with the legacy of past fascist movements and the ongoing threat of far-right extremism, it is crucial to remain vigilant and united against hate and discrimination. By recognizing the parallels between historical figures like Mosley and contemporary leaders like Farage, we can work towards a more inclusive and tolerant society for all Londoners.
