Sally Rooney Might Not be Able to Publish in the UK

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When Politics Meets Publishing: Why Sally Rooney’s Books Could Vanish from UK Shelves

The acclaimed author Sally Rooney has issued a stark warning: she may soon be unable to publish — or even continue selling — her work in the United Kingdom.

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Her statement comes in response to the UK government’s decision to ban Palestine Action under new anti-terror laws, a group Rooney has publicly supported. 

Rooney told the court that the ban has introduced deep legal uncertainty around whether UK-based publishers and producers can lawfully pay her royalties. Without royalty payments, she argues, she cannot enter into new publishing contracts — meaning her upcoming books couldn’t be legally released in the UK. 

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The consequences could extend beyond future work. If payments remain prohibited, her existing novels — including bestsellers and titles adapted for television — may have to be withdrawn from UK stores. “My existing works may have to be withdrawn from sale and would therefore no longer be available to readers in the UK,” Rooney said. 

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Rooney described the potential outcome as a “truly extreme incursion by the state into the realm of artistic expression.” She emphasized that globally her books can remain available, but in the UK, readership could vanish simply because legal entities fear liability under the proscription.

The legal challenge to the ban, brought by co-founder of Palestine Action Huda Ammori, is ongoing as of late November 2025; a verdict from the UK High Court is expected soon. 

This article was previously published on kuwaitmoments. To see the original article, click here