A Local View on Kneecap Playing Glastonbury

[I was asked by the media for my opinion on Kneecap performing at Glastonbury, and I wanted to share it here to provide the full context of my response]

I’m not fully aware of the complete context of Kneecap’s comments regarding violence against public figures like MPs, though I understand they have issued an apology. With that in mind, I share my thoughts.

There’s a serious concern: normalizing hate against public officials is dangerous. Every day, as elected Councillors/MPs, we face abuse and threats—many left unchallenged online—and media platforms must share responsibility for promoting a toxic environment around public officials.

In a healthy democracy, dedicated individuals representing local communities are vital, yet hostility makes filling vacancies harder. Regarding Glastonbury Festival, which is in my councillor division, if Kneecap performs, I hope they use their platform to clearly state that they stand against violence directed at elected officials and to promote debate rather than hate, in order to inspire positive change.

Claire Sully, Chair of Somerset Lib Dems Ruling Group at Somerset Council, Mendip South Ward Councillor, Local Councillor to Glastonbury Festival.