Exclusive: author urges ministers to engage with those on hunger strike, who want better conditions, bail and lifting of ban
Sally Rooney has pleaded with the UK government to address the “shocking mistreatment” of Palestine Action-affiliated prisoners who are on hunger strike, saying she fears for their welfare.
Six prisoners awaiting trial are refusing food, including two who have been on hunger strike for more than two weeks and are already said to have lost considerable weight and be struggling physically. Their demands include improved jail conditions, release on bail and lifting the ban on Palestine Action.
Rooney, the bestselling author of Normal People and Conversations with Friends, said: “The shocking mistreatment of these prisoners – including censorship and withholding of letters, prolonged use of solitary confinement, and years-long imprisonment without trial – constitutes a serious violation of human rights.
“I urge the British government to take action to engage with the prisoners and address their demands.
