UK national security adviser under pressure over wife’s comment on supporting Palestine Action
Helm’s post draws scrutiny
Helm, a former journalist who covered the Middle East, posted in response to broadcaster Adam Boulton’s criticism of novelist Sally Rooney’s support for Palestine. Boulton had described that support as “anti-Jewish,” according to the article.
Helm wrote that authors who support Palestine and Palestine Action risk having their books removed from shelves. She is writing a book about Gaza and married Powell in 2007; he became national security adviser in 2024 under Keir Starmer.
Government and police response
Downing Street distanced the government from Helm’s post on Friday. A spokesperson said her views were those of an individual who did not represent the government in any capacity.
The Metropolitan Police said it knew of an X post referencing Palestine Action, dated Thursday, 15 October. The post was being assessed to determine whether further police investigation might be required.
Security rules and reactions
Government guidance says marriage to a suspected or convicted terrorist would normally lead to security clearance being revoked. The vetting framework for the national security adviser role treats marriage to someone tied to a proscribed terrorist organisation as an automatic, unmitigated national security risk.
Defend Our Juries, a group supporting peaceful protest, thanked Helm for challenging the ban and argued it was unjust. Another spokesperson called the post “gobsmacking” and said police should investigate and Helm should face the law like others who appear to support a proscribed terrorist organisation.
Rooney’s books and open letter
Hundreds of writers signed a letter backing Rooney and Faber Books. It condemned the removal of her books from UK sale and said a country that bans writers for speaking out is not free.
Rooney said she withdrew from the UK market with Faber after learning that passing her earnings from UK book sales to her could be a serious criminal offence. She said she was prepared to accept the consequences; Faber will continue selling her books outside the UK.
Key points
- Jonathan Powell is facing pressure after Sarah Helm expressed support for Palestine Action.
- Downing Street said Helm’s views do not represent the government.
- Police are assessing Helm’s post to decide whether further investigation is needed.
- Hundreds of writers have backed Sally Rooney and Faber Books amid the UK sales dispute.