Politicians denounce masked protesters blocking Dover port roads

A large group of men wearing black balaclavas blocked the A20 and other access routes to the Port of Dover, chanting anti‑illegal‑migration slogans such as “stop the boats”. Police engaged with the demonstrators but reported no violence and said the protest was spontaneous, with the protesters dispersing by midday. The blockage caused four miles of congestion and delays of up to 45 minutes, prompting P&O Ferries to suspend movements and rebook affected passengers. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and minister Robert Jenrick publicly condemned the tactics, while Dover MP Mike Tapp expressed frustration with the police response.