Full Breakdown
MP Calls for Visa Revocation of US Streamer Hasan Piker Ahead of SXSW London
5/28/2026, 9:00:16 AM
Visa Revocation Request
Labour MP David Taylor has asked the Home Office to cancel US streamer Hasan Piker’s visa ahead of his scheduled SXSW London appearance in early June, arguing that his presence would be “not conducive to the public good” amid rising antisemitic incidents.
Background & Key Actors
Hasan Piker, a Twitch streamer with three million followers and 1.5 million on X, draws 30,000 daily viewers. He has claimed “America deserved 9/11” and praised Hamas as “1,000 times better” than Israel, saying he would “vote for Hamas over Israel every single time.” Labour MP David Taylor (Hemel Hempstead) leads the revocation call, backed by Jewish group CST, which warns against giving a platform to extremist rhetoric. This follows UK bans of Kanye West and 11 far-right agitators ahead of a Tommy Robinson rally.
Data & Reach
Piker’s streams attract over 30,000 daily viewers; his combined Twitch and X audience exceeds 4.5 million. SXSW London’s programme also lists speakers such as Esther Perel, Chelsea Clinton and Ant & Dec.
Official Statements & Responses
Taylor described the invitation as “entirely unacceptable” given Piker’s large following and “record levels of antisemitism” in the UK, urging institutions to consider the impact of his rhetoric. SXSW London said inclusion of a speaker “does not imply endorsement” and that the event “is built as a platform for open exchange… guided by our ethical framework and code of conduct.” CST called for organisers to “act responsibly.” The Home Office has not issued a comment.
Criticism & Opposition
CST’s criticism emphasizes that Piker’s platform could legitimize extremist narratives, while SXSW’s stance on speaker diversity serves as a counterpoint, indicating the festival does not endorse any speaker’s views.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The Home Office has not confirmed whether it will revoke Piker’s visa, and SXSW declined to comment on the visa issue, leaving the outcome uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Labour MP Mr Taylor said: “It’s shocking that SXSW would invite someone who has openly supported a proscribed terrorist organisation and spouted these kinds of vile antisemitic rants to speak at their festival.” — David Taylor, MP for Hemel Hempstead
- “With the unacceptable rise in antisemitism on our streets leaving British Jews in a constant state of anxiety, Hasan Piker is clearly not conducive to the public good.” — David Taylor, MP for Hemel Hempstead
- “The Home Office must revoke his visa immediately.” — David Taylor, MP for Hemel Hempstead
- “America deserved 9/11,” — Hasan Piker (reported claim on a 2019 livestream)
Why It Matters
The request highlights concerns about rising antisemitism in the UK and the potential for high-profile digital influencers to amplify extremist views, raising questions about the balance between free expression and public safety at cultural events.
What’s Next
SXSW London proceeds in early June pending the visa decision. A Home Office response will shape debate over venue-based vetting of speakers and could set a precedent for future events.
