Sally Rooney can’t sell her books in UK over support for Palestine Action

Publisher ends UK supply

Faber announced that Rooney’s books would no longer be available through its UK supply in any format. The publisher said it had made the decision with Rooney’s agreement.

Faber said current UK legislation meant it could not pass her UK earnings on to her. It described continuing to sell her work without paying her as an unacceptable position for a publisher.

Donations prompted decision

The group, which is based in the UK, says it uses disruptive methods against companies it considers connected to Israel’s military industry. Its activities have included targeting facilities linked to an Israeli weapons maker and entering Britain’s largest air force base, where activists spray-painted two aircraft.

Government banned group

The British government outlawed Palestine Action in July last year, citing serious property damage. It said the group’s activity had grown more frequent and severe since the start of 2024, and that members showed a willingness to use violence.

Criticism over designation

Opponents of the ban raised concerns about freedom of speech and challenged the government’s reasoning. The group has claimed responsibility for actions including vandalism at one of President Trump’s golf courses in Scotland.

U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Türk called on the UK to withdraw the designation. He said the decision appeared disproportionate and unnecessary.