Behind The Story: Sally Rooney's stand

This week, Sally Rooney's announcement that her books will no longer be supplied to UK shops due to her support for the Palestine Action group has sparked commercial and cultural uproar. International human rights lawyer Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC joined Behind The Story to discuss the circumstances behind this decision and its implications.

Rooney, 35, had previously expressed her intention to donate her book earnings and BBC adaptations to Palestine Action, which seeks to end global participation in Israel's genocidal and apartheid regime. The UK's ban, implemented in July of last year, makes membership or support for the direct-action group a criminal offense, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

Rooney stated that continuing publication of her work could constitute a serious criminal offense, leading her to agree with her publisher Faber not to supply her books to UK retailers. Gallagher, with nearly three decades of international case work experience, describes the UK legislation as a "grossly disproportionate overreach" and emphasizes the significant impact Rooney's decision has on her in one of her largest markets.

However, Gallagher also highlights the predicament faced by smaller authors who might not have the resources to oppose such legislation, potentially facing bans due to the law's strict nature. The UK Supreme Court will soon hear Palestine Action's appeal against the court's classification of the group as a terror organization, scheduled for November 4 and 5.

This hearing is anticipated to draw considerable attention. Meanwhile, major US morning shows are broadcasting live from Kerry, Ireland, marking the first time the show will be completely broadcast from the country, featuring presenters such as Savannah Guthrie and Jenna Bush Hager.