Irish novelist Sally Rooney’s books will no longer be sold in the UK after the author said she intended to use her royalties to support Palestine Action, the direct-action group banned under British terrorism legislation. The decision, made in agreement with her publisher Faber, comes amid an ongoing legal challenge against the group’s proscription and raises questions about the impact of the ban on writers and publishers.
Known for bestselling novels including Normal People, Conversations with Friends, and Intermezzo, Rooney has been outspoken in her support for Palestine Action, whose proscription by the British government has put her plans to financially support the group at the centre of the controversy.
Rooney Stands by Her Support for Palestine Action
In a statement released on Wednesday, Rooney addressed the legal situation surrounding the group and reaffirmed her position.
“In July 2025, the direct-action protest group Palestine Action was proscribed as a terrorist organisation in the UK.
The following month, I wrote an opinion piece expressing my intention to go on supporting Palestine Action, which is not a proscribed or otherwise prohibited group here in the Republic of Ireland.”
She added: “I have made every effort to be honest with the public about my beliefs and intentions, and I am wholly prepared to accept the consequences.”
Rooney’s position reflects her continued willingness to support the group despite the legal restrictions in place in the UK.
Why Rooney’s Publisher Is Withdrawing Her Books From the UK
Faber, Rooney’s publisher, confirmed that it would no longer supply her books in the UK in any format, following discussions with the author over the legal implications of her intended use of royalties.
Now, Rooney’s publisher, Faber, says UK legislation means it cannot pass on her UK earnings, leading to a decision to stop supplying her books in the country.
“In full agreement with Sally, we have taken the decision that we can no longer supply her works in the UK in any format.”
Faber also reaffirmed its support for Rooney, saying it remained proud to work with her and confirming that her books would continue to be published outside the UK.
Why Palestine Action Is Facing Legal Scrutiny in the UK
Palestine Action was proscribed by the British government under terrorism legislation in July 2025. The designation makes membership of or support for the group a criminal offence under UK law, subject to the legislation’s specific provisions.
The group has also faced scrutiny over its funding. The British government proscribed Palestine Action as a terrorist organization under the Terrorism Act 2000 on July 5, 2025, citing severe property damage, escalation of aggressive tactics, and threats to national security. Despite the ban, the group has continued to seek donations online.
The proscription is also being challenged in court. Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori has brought a legal challenge against the ban, with the UK Supreme Court set to hear an appeal in the case in November.
As the legal challenge continues, the decision highlights the wider consequences of the proscription of Palestine Action, extending beyond the group itself to the publishing industry and the question of whether authors can use their earnings to support causes they believe in.
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