ANTI-RACIST campaigners are mobilising against Italian far-right leader Matteo Salvini’s expected visit to Britain. 

Unite Against Fascism and Stand up to Racism are calling for mass protests to create a hostile reception for Mr Salvini, who is rumoured to be visiting London and Liverpool next month. 

UAF joint secretary Weyman Bennett said: “Unite Against Fascism are angered to hear that far-right Salvini is set to visit. 

“He is part of the international far-right and organises with those who promote islamophobia and anti-semitism.”

Mr Bennett said that the recent massacre of Turkish and Kurdish men in the German town of Hanua by a fascist “show that those who spread scapegoating and hatred should not be welcome.”

Politicians, activists and trade unionists have signed a statement supporting the planned protests. 

It reads: “We oppose anti-semitism, Islamophobia and all forms of racism.

“We call on any venue planning to host Salvini to cancel his event there.”

“We support the demonstrations planned by Unite Against Fascism and Stand Up to Racism to oppose Salvini if he attends.”

Among the signatories are shadow chancellor John McDonnell, communication union CWU’s general secretary Dave Ward and Green London mayoral candidate Sian Berry.

Last week Liverpool regional city mayor Steve Rotheram said Mr Salvini’s “division and hate” would not be welcomed. 

The Italian far-right leader, who is facing charges of kidnapping for preventing a rescue ship with 131 refugees from docking, denied that he will be visiting Britain.