Understand
Police assess Palestine Action social media post by national security adviser's wife
Overview
Police are assessing a social media post made by Sarah Helm, the wife of the government's national security adviser Jonathan Powell, referencing the group Palestine Action. Helm posted on X in response to a discussion regarding author Sally Rooney, stating: "God help us authors who support Palestine and Palestine Action." A Downing Street spokeswoman noted that Helm does not represent the government, while politicians and advocacy groups have expressed contrasting reactions to the post.
Key points
- Police are assessing a social media post by Sarah Helm, wife of national security adviser Jonathan Powell, referencing Palestine Action.
- Helm wrote on X: "God help us authors who support Palestine and Palestine Action" following a discussion about author Sally Rooney.
- A No 10 spokeswoman stated that Helm does not represent the government in any capacity.
- Reform UK MP Danny Kruger raised concerns with the prime minister, and the Campaign Against Antisemitism called for a public denouncement.
- Green Party leader Zack Polanski defended Helm, calling for Palestine Action to be de-proscribed.
- Palestine Action was proscribed as a terrorist group by the UK government, making support or membership a criminal offence.