There are fears a British far-right leader's invitation to speak in the US could earn him enough to fund a nationwide tour back home.
Tommy Robinson, former leader of the English Defence League (EDL), has been invited to two events in the US - one hosted by thinktank the Middle East Forum, and the other by the David Horowitz Freedom Center, reports the Guardian, describing the former as "neo-conservative" and the latter "right-wing".
Mr Robinson took leadership of the EDL soon after its formation in 2009, but left in 2013, citing its violent tactics and links to the Norwegian Defence League, of which mass-killer Anders Breivik was a member.
He made headlines earlier this year when he was jailed for contempt of court, and supporters gathered outside 10 Downing St in London to demand his freedom, which was later granted when the court ordered a new hearing into his charges.
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Anti-fascist groups in the UK say Mr Robinson stands to earn more than NZ$2 million from his engagements in the US.
"The inevitable media coverage that will surround the visit will no doubt lead to an increase in his already significant monthly donations from America," Joe Mulhall, researcher at Hope not Hate, told the Guardian.
"America offers the opportunity for further large-scale investment in [Mr Robinson].
"We believe that, should he be allowed to enter the US for this event, he stands to make in the range of £1m in donations with the potential for much more."
The Middle East Forum has reportedly helped Mr Robinson pay his legal bills. Since leaving the EDL, Mr Robinson has continued to campaign against immigration to the UK, particularly by Muslims. He's also founded a British chapter of German anti-Islam group Pegida.
An Independent report earlier this year said another far-right figure with a huge following, Stefan Molyneux, made bank when thousands in donations made to his Bitcoin wallet inflated to more than NZ$2.6 million when the currency exploded in popularity.
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Mr Molyneux's visit to New Zealand earlier this year with Lauren Southern made headlines, but their speaking gig was cancelled. He said it was a "financial blow", and asked fans to donate more.
Newshub.
