Tommy Robinson claims he was discriminated against by police at the Channel Tunnel because of his political beliefs, a court has heard. The 42-year-old, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was stopped while driving a luxury silver Bentley Bentayga to Benidorm in Spain on July 28 last year.
Defence barrister Alisdair Williamson KC told Westminster Magistrates' Court that the stop and detention was unlawful. He argued officers had taken a "discriminatory stance" based on their knowledge of Robinson's views, saying the "predominant influence" on PC Mitchell Thorogood's decision was "'oh look, it's Tommy Robinson'".
Counter-terrorism powers dispute
Police demanded access to Robinson's iPhone under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act after becoming suspicious of his "vague replies" about his activities. The Act gives police power to stop anyone at UK ports "to determine whether they may be involved or concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism".
Robinson denies failing to comply with the counter-terrorism powers during the incident. When asked to hand over his phone's PIN, Robinson replied: "Not a chance bruv… you look like c***s, so you ain't having it."
The former English Defence League leader told officers the phone contained work material, saying: "It's my work, I'm a journalist." He added that the device held information about "vulnerable girls".
Prosecution case and evidence
Prosecutor Jo Morris said the officer had reasonable concerns about Robinson's "notoriety for associating with far-right activists". She argued: "It is a reasonable suspicion to think that on his telephone there may be information relevant to acts of terrorism."
Officers became concerned about Robinson's "demeanour" after he drove alone into the police inspection area, giving "short, vague replies and made no eye contact". The court heard he had more than £13,000 and 1,900 euros on him when stopped, was travelling in a high-value car not registered under his name, and had booked his tickets on the day of travel.
Legal framework and next steps
Under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, detained persons can be held for up to six hours and are legally obliged to answer questions and provide passwords for electronic devices. Refusing to comply constitutes a criminal offence.
District Judge Sam Goozee will deliver his ruling on November 4, as Robinson is currently travelling to Israel as a guest of the government. If found guilty, Robinson could face up to three months in jail and a £2,500 fine.
Before the hearing, Robinson claimed in a video posted on X that billionaire Elon Musk had "picked up the legal bill" for "this absolute state persecution".
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
