Faber Halts UK Sales of Sally Rooney’s Novels Due to Terrorism Law Conflict

Key points

• Faber announced the withdrawal of Rooney’s books from UK sale on October 15, 2026, citing legal constraints.
• Rooney pledged to donate royalties from her novels and adaptations to Palestine Action, a group banned in the UK in July 2025.
• UK law makes it a criminal offense to support proscribed groups, with penalties up to 14 years in prison.
• Ebook editions have been removed, but physical copies remain available in shops due to existing stock.
• The UK Supreme Court is expected to hear an appeal against the ban on Palestine Action in November 2026.

Background

This development follows the UK government’s designation of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization in July 2025, after the group spray-painted aircraft at RAF Brize Norton. Rooney had previously avoided traveling to the UK in September 2025 due to fears of arrest. The current situation escalates the legal and cultural tensions surrounding the group’s proscription, which has already led to over 3,000 arrests for peaceful protest.

How outlets are covering it

The New York Times emphasizes the legal risk to Faber, noting that paying royalties could violate the Terrorism Act. The Guardian frames Rooney’s decision as a 'brave and humane' stand against authoritarian legislation, highlighting the absurdity of equating her with violent extremists. Al Jazeera focuses on the practical impact, noting that while ebooks are gone, physical copies remain. AP News reports the withdrawal as a direct consequence of Rooney’s public pledge, without editorializing on the legality of the ban. All sources agree on the core facts but differ in tone, with The Guardian being most critical of the UK government’s actions.

Why it matters

This case tests the limits of free speech and artistic expression under UK terrorism laws. It highlights the chilling effect of proscribing groups that engage in property damage rather than violence against people. The outcome may influence how other artists and activists navigate political expression in the UK, and the pending Supreme Court ruling could redefine the boundaries of protest and support for proscribed organizations.

What to watch

The UK Supreme Court is expected to hear the appeal against the ban on Palestine Action in November 2026. If the ban is overturned, Faber may resume UK sales. If upheld, Rooney’s books will likely remain unavailable in the UK. The case will also influence public debate on the use of terrorism legislation for protest groups.