Full Breakdown
MP Alicia Kearns Calls for Review of National Security Adviser After Wife’s Pro-Palestine Post
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Conservative MP Alicia Kearns has written to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak questioning whether National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell can remain in his post. Kearns’ letter follows a social-media post by Powell’s wife, Sarah Helm, that expressed support for the proscribed group Palestine Action.
Background & Context
Palestine Action was designated a terrorist organisation in the United Kingdom last year, making membership or support punishable by up to 14 years’ imprisonment. Helm’s post on X, made last Thursday, read: “God help us authors who support Palestine and Palestine Action,” in response to a discussion about author Sally Rooney. The Metropolitan Police investigated the tweet and concluded that it did not meet the criminal threshold, dropping the matter recently. An appeal against the proscription is scheduled to be heard by the Supreme Court next month, extending a legal battle that has lasted more than a year.
Official Statements & Responses
The Metropolitan Police statement confirmed that the investigation found no criminal offence. No comment was provided by Jonathan Powell or his office regarding the MP’s concerns.
Data & Statistics
- Palestine Action’s proscription carries a maximum sentence of 14 years imprisonment for anyone found to belong to or support the group.