Faber Withdraws Sally Rooney Books Over Palestine Action Funding Ban
Publisher halts U.K. book sales as author's financial support for proscribed group creates legal impasse.
1Publisher Ends U.K. Distribution
Faber has officially ceased supplying Sally Rooney’s books within the United Kingdom. The publisher stated that current legislation prevents them from transferring royalties to the author, as she pledged these earnings to Palestine Action. This financial blockade makes the continued sale of her literary works an unconscionable situation for the firm.
2Palestine Action Group Proscription
The British government designated Palestine Action as a terrorist organization in July 2025. This move was unprecedented, as it marked the first time a group was banned primarily for property damage rather than direct violence against people. The organization actively targets facilities linked to Israeli weapons manufacturing to disrupt supply chains.
3Legal Status of the Ban
The proscription of Palestine Action has faced significant judicial scrutiny. In February, the High Court initially ruled the ban unlawful and disproportionate. However, the Court of Appeal overturned this decision in June 2025. The Supreme Court is currently scheduled to hear a further appeal regarding the group's legal status next month.
4Financial Support Criminalization
Under the U.K. Terrorism Act, providing financial support to a proscribed organization constitutes a serious criminal offense. Sally Rooney explicitly stated her intention to donate royalties to the group. Consequently, Faber concluded that fulfilling existing publishing contracts could potentially expose the company and the author to criminal liability under current laws.
5Impact on Free Expression
The ban has ignited a national debate regarding the limits of free speech and political dissent. Over 3,000 individuals have been arrested for expressing support for the group at various demonstrations. Critics argue that using counterterrorism powers to criminalize political protest sets a dangerous precedent for civil liberties within the United Kingdom.
6Author’s Stance and Consequences
Sally Rooney maintains that the U.K. government has stripped citizens of basic rights to protect its relationship with Israel. She continues to support Palestine Action, noting the group remains legal in the Republic of Ireland. Rooney stated she is fully prepared to accept the consequences of her public position and political advocacy.
7Industry and Political Reaction
The withdrawal of Rooney’s books has drawn sharp criticism from political figures like MP Ian Byrne, who labeled the situation a disgraceful attack on expression. Huda Ammori, co-founder of Palestine Action, described the development as a new low in the escalating assault on free speech caused by the government's broad proscription measures.
8Broader Implications for Publishing
This case highlights the intersection of international political conflict and corporate compliance. Publishers now face complex challenges when authors use their platforms to support controversial causes. The inability to reconcile contractual obligations with national security laws suggests that political activism may increasingly disrupt traditional distribution models in the global book market.
Original article: TIME — Faber Withdraws Sally Rooney Books Over Palestine Action Funding Ban