Sally Rooney Books No Longer Sold in UK After Palestinian Action Support

Faber ends UK supply

Faber said it could not pass UK earnings from Rooney’s work to her under current legislation. The publisher called selling her books without transferring the proceeds an unconscionable situation.

The company said it had decided, with Rooney’s agreement, that it could no longer supply her books in the UK in any format. Rooney, 35, had announced that she would donate proceeds from her books to Palestinian Action.

Why the group was banned

The UK government banned Palestinian Action in July last year, citing serious damage to property. It said the group’s activities had grown more frequent and severe since the start of 2024 and that members had shown a willingness to use violence.

The group says it uses disruptive tactics against companies it describes as supporting Israel’s military industry. Its actions have included targeting facilities linked to an Israeli weapons manufacturer and spray-painting two aircraft at Britain’s largest air force base.

Criticism of the designation

UN human rights chief Volker Türk urged the government to reverse the decision, calling it disproportionate and unnecessary. Amnesty International UK also criticized what it called the country’s overly broad definition of terrorism.

Rooney defends her position

Under UK law, anyone who gives financial assistance to Palestinian Action could face up to 14 years in prison. Rooney says she has stopped travelling from Ireland to the UK for award ceremonies and other events because she fears arrest.