Norfolk MP advised not to attend counter-protests at asylum hotel
Clive Lewis, MP for Norwich South, was told by officers that he could cause a flashpoint if he joined demonstrations at the Brook Hotel, in Bowthorpe
Last updated 14th Aug 2025
A Norfolk MP has been advised by police not to attend counter-protests at an asylum hotel in his constituency because his presence would escalate already simmering tensions.
Clive Lewis, Labour MP for Norwich South, was told by officers that he could cause a flashpoint if he were to join demonstrations at the Brook Hotel, in Bowthorpe.
The hotel has been the focus of protests and counter protests in recent weeks, with crowds of hundreds of people descending on the area.
Mr Lewis has attended counter demonstrations at the hotel in the past – most recently in December when he spoke through a megaphone and described the main protest group as “racists and fascists” – but is understood to be acquiescing with the police advice.
The revelation underlines the extent of concern among police and politicians about the febrile nature of protests which have broken out at a number of asylum hotels this summer, both in Norfolk and further afield.
At a protest at the Brook Hotel last week, police were given emergency powers to handle any troublemakers.
The hotel has been one of the most high profile venues for demonstrations, especially since anti-immigration campaigner Tommy Robinson urged people to attend a previous protest there last month.
One man has been charged with assault following that protest.
There have also been demonstrations at the Park Hotel in Diss, where the Home Office is seeking to replace asylum-seeking families who have lived there for two years with single males.
Sources close to Mr Lewis said the MP has been advised by Norfolk Constabulary not to attend counter-demonstrations in Bowthorpe due to concerns that his presence would heighten tensions, and he would be personally targeted by protestors.
At the latest protest, people could be heard chanting “we want our country back” and “stop the boats”. Some raised concerns about safety in the community.
A spokesman for the MP said: “It would be much better if people seeking asylum were integrated into the community rather than being housed expensively in hotels.
“But Mr Lewis has not been made aware of any concerning incidents relating to people staying in the hotel.”