Sally Rooney says she can ‘no longer safely enter UK without facing arrest’

Sally Rooney made the statement after winning a Sky Arts award

The Mayo author, known for novels such as Normal People and Intermezzo, made the statement after winning a Sky Arts award but failing to collect it in London.

Rooney's editor, Alex Bowler, instead attended the ceremony and read out a statement from the writer: "I'm so touched and grateful to receive this prize.

"I truly loved writing Intermezzo, and it means the world to me to think that it found some small place in the lives of its readers. Thank you.

"I wish that I could be with you this evening to accept the honour in person, but because of my support for non-violent anti-war protest, I'm advised that I can no longer safely enter the UK without potentially facing arrest.

"In that context, I want to thank you all the more warmly for honouring my work tonight and to reiterate my belief in the dignity and beauty of all human life and my solidarity with the people of Palestine."

Speaking last month, Rooney told The Irish Times that she supports Palestine Action.

She said, "If that makes me a supporter of terror under UK law, so be it."

She added that she will use the proceeds from her work and her public platform to continue supporting Palestine Action.

Palestine Action was banned under terrorism legislation in the UK on July 5th.

Over 1,000 people have been arrested in the UK for their support of Palestine Action since the ban was announced.