Downing Street has condemned as “half-hearted” an apology by Irish rappers Kneecap to past comments in support of Hamas and Hezbollah, and a call to “kill” MPs .
Responding to an overnight statement by the group, Keir Starmer’s spokesperson said: “It is half-hearted. We completely reject in the strongest possible terms the threats they have made to MPs and comments in relation to the Middle East. It’s right that police are looking into these videos.”
The No.10 aide said Starmer found comments by the Irish trio “completely unacceptable” and that there “no place in our society for intimidation or abuse.”
Asked about Kneecap’s inclusion on the line-up at this year’s Glastonbury Festival, Starmer’s spokesperson said this was not the decision of government, but one taken by the organisers.
Scotland Yard have launched an investigation after a video clip from November 2024 shows a band member shouting in support of the proscribed terrorist groups, “up Hamas, up Hezbollah,” in Kentish Town Forum and a Hezbollah flag on display.
Another video of the band at a gig – in November 2023 – resurfaced which appeared to show one of its members saying: “The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.”
Keir Starmer at PMQs
A new statement issued by the band said:”Let us be unequivocal: we do not, and have never, supported Hamas or Hezbollah.
“We condemn all attacks on civilians, always. It is never okay. We know this more than anyone, given our nation’s history. We also reject any suggestion that we would seek to incite violence against any MP or individual. Ever.”
It added:”To the Amess and Cox families, we send our heartfelt apologies, we never intended to cause you hurt.”
The band suggested they were victims of a smear campaign as a result of their support for the Palestinians. The statement accused Israel of carrying out the starvation of all two million Gazans.
