Starmer Condemns Kneecap’s Views as UK Prosecutors Review Terror Charge Dismissal

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has strongly condemned the views expressed by Irish language rap trio Kneecap, describing them as “completely intolerable.” This statement comes as the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) undertakes a thorough review of a recent High Court decision that dismissed a terror charge against one of the group’s members.

High Court Dismisses Terror Charge

Liam Og O hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, was initially accused of displaying a flag supporting the proscribed terror organization Hezbollah during a performance at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, north London, on November 21, 2024. The initial case was dismissed in September of last year after Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled the proceedings were “instituted unlawfully.” This ruling stemmed from the CPS failing to obtain the Attorney General’s permission before charging O hAnnaidh with a terror offense on May 21.

The CPS appealed this decision in January, but on Wednesday, two judges at the High Court upheld the original ruling, dismissing the appeal. The court determined the charge was brought outside the six-month timeframe allowed for criminal charges after Attorney General’s permission was granted the day following the initial notification of charges.

Starmer’s Response and CPS Review

During a visit to Belfast, Sir Keir Starmer reiterated his strong disapproval of Kneecap’s views. “My views on Kneecap are highly well known in relation to what they stand for and what they say, which is completely intolerable,” he stated. He also confirmed that the CPS is “looking at the judgment very carefully” in light of the ongoing legal scrutiny surrounding the group Independent.

The Prime Minister’s comments reflect a firm stance against the group’s messaging, while acknowledging the legal process underway MSN.