UK Prime Minister Critiques Kneecap's Scheduled Glastonbury Performance

In a significant political statement, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has publicly expressed his disapproval of the Irish-speaking rap group Kneecap's upcoming performance at the Glastonbury Festival. This remark comes in the wake of a court appearance by Kneecap member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, who faces serious charges related to terrorism for allegedly displaying a flag supporting the proscribed organization Hezbollah during a concert last November.

Starmer's comments, made during an interview with The Sun on [insert date], reflect growing concerns among political leaders regarding the implications of allowing artists with controversial backgrounds to perform at high-profile events. "No, I don’t think that’s appropriate," Starmer stated, emphasizing the need for clarity regarding threats posed by such performances. He refrained from elaborating further due to the ongoing legal proceedings.

The charges against Ó hAnnaidh, known by his stage name Mo Chara, stem from a counter-terrorism investigation initiated after footage from the 2022 performance surfaced, revealing alleged support for Hezbollah and Hamas, both banned in the UK. He was released on unconditional bail following his court appearance at Westminster Magistrates' Court on [insert date].

Following Starmer’s remarks, Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the BBC should refrain from broadcasting Kneecap's performance. "The BBC should not be showing Kneecap propaganda," Badenoch stated in a social media post that linked to an article from The Times asserting that the BBC had not issued a ban against the group. Badenoch previously attempted to block Kneecap from receiving a £14,250 funding award while serving as a minister, a decision the group later challenged successfully in Belfast High Court.

In response to the political backlash, a spokesperson for the BBC clarified that while they do not impose bans on artists, their coverage will align with editorial guidelines and will be determined as the festival approaches.

The controversy surrounding Kneecap has only heightened their visibility. The group, known for their provocative lyrics and socio-political commentary, has cultivated a dedicated following, demonstrated by the substantial crowds that gathered to support Ó hAnnaidh at his court hearing. "For anybody going to Glastonbury, you can see us there at 4 PM on Saturday," Ó hAnnaidh announced after the hearing. He added, "If you can’t be there, we’ll be on the BBC, if anybody watches the BBC. But most importantly: free, free Palestine."

Kneecap, formed in 2017, has garnered attention not only for their music but also for their engagement with contemporary political issues, making their performances a focal point of cultural and political discourse in Northern Ireland and beyond. The group's rise to fame inspired a semi-fictionalized film featuring Oscar-nominated actor Michael Fassbender, which won a British Academy of Film Awards (BAFTA) in February 2025.

The implications of the Prime Minister's comments and the ongoing legal issues surrounding Kneecap will likely resonate within the broader context of freedom of expression and the arts in politically charged environments. As the Glastonbury Festival approaches, the situation remains fluid, with potential ramifications for both the group and the political figures involved.