The government is reviewing whether Kanye West should be allowed to enter the UK after a planned appearance by the US rapper at a London festival prompted criticism over his prior antisemitic comments.
The star, now known as Ye, released a song called Heil Hitler and sold swastika T-shirts last year. He later apologized and blamed his bipolar disorder's episodes of manic behavior.
Brands have withdrawn their sponsorships of Wireless Festival, and critics are calling on its organizers to cancel his appearance and for his visa to be denied.
Ministers have the power to ban foreign nationals from the UK if their presence is not considered conducive to the public good. It is understood that ministers are considering West's permission to enter the UK. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer earlier called the prospect of him headlining the festival deeply concerning.
The rapper has already been refused entry to Australia, which canceled his visa after he released Heil Hitler last May.
The Conservative Party urged the government to refuse West a visa because allowing someone with his track record to headline a major public event sends entirely the wrong message.
Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said West's past antisemitic actions were not a one-off lapse, but a pattern of behavior that has caused real offense and distress to Jewish communities. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson added that West's past comments were completely unacceptable and absolutely disgusting and that the rapper should not appear at the festival.
Michael Weiger, chief executive of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said the UK should refuse West entry, describing it as a very appropriate step.
Meanwhile, the leader of Haringey Council expressed disappointment over the booking, stressing the concerns of the local Jewish community. Several sponsors, including Pepsi and Rockstar Energy, have pulled their support from the festival, with the situation remaining fluid as the event approaches.
