Sally Rooney, the renowned Irish author, has told the High Court that a UK publishing ban could prevent her from releasing new books in the country and could even result in her previous works being removed from sale. This potential ban stems from her support for Palestine Action, a group that was proscribed by the UK government under anti-terror laws in July.
Palestine Action’s proscription made it a criminal offence to be a member of or support the group, with penalties of up to 14 years in prison. Rooney has been outspoken in her support for the group, even pledging to donate earnings from her books, including the TV adaptations of Normal People and Conversations With Friends, to support Palestine Action. This led to concerns that her actions could result in a terrorist offence.
In her witness statement, made public on Thursday, Rooney explained how this legal situation could severely affect her career. She noted that the BBC drama producers had been advised not to send money to her agent if the funds could be used to support Palestine Action, as it would be a violation of anti-terror laws. Rooney added that if she were to create new works, such as screenplays or TV shows, she would be unable to have them produced or distributed by companies in England and Wales unless she accepted that she would not be paid for them.
Rooney emphasized that royalties from book sales are crucial to her livelihood, and if the UK is legally prohibited from paying her royalties, her existing works could be pulled from sale. This would mean her books would no longer be available to UK readers, marking what she called a “truly extreme incursion” by the state into artistic freedom.
She also highlighted the potential consequences for future publications, stating that if Palestine Action remains banned when her next book is due for release, it could be unavailable to UK readers, despite being available internationally. She added that, in such a case, she would be forced to either publish her book for free or be prevented from doing so altogether.
Sir James Eadie KC, barrister for the Home Office, defended the proscription of Palestine Action, claiming its purpose was to combat terrorism and prevent public support for such organizations. He stated that the ban aimed to “deprive proscribed organizations of publicity and financial support.”
The High Court hearing is set to conclude on 2 December, with a written decision expected thereafter. Rooney’s case raises important questions about the intersection of free expression, artistic freedom, and national security, and its outcome could have significant implications for authors and artists in the UK.
