Keir Starmer expresses concern over Kanye West headlining London festival

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has voiced deep concern over Kanye West, now known as Ye, being scheduled to headline the Wireless Festival in London this summer. West, aged 48, has faced widespread criticism for previous antisemitic remarks and controversial actions, including declaring himself a Nazi and selling clothing featuring a swastika. Despite issuing apologies, including a full-page ad in the Wall Street Journal earlier this year, his booking has sparked political and community backlash. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called for the government to prevent West from entering the UK, citing the seriousness of his past behaviour. The Home Office has not yet received an entry application from West. He has not performed in the UK since 2015, though three songs from his latest album, Bully, remain in the UK top 100 singles chart. The Board of Deputies of British Jews also urged authorities to block his entry, while London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan emphasised that the artist’s past actions do not reflect the city’s values. Festival organisers Festival Republic are responsible for the booking, which they have yet to publicly comment on. The Wireless Festival is set to run from 10-12 July, promoting West’s most iconic tracks across three nights.