Court Rules UK Government Acted Illegally in Blocking Kneecap's Music Grant

Irish rap group Kneecap wins legal battle after funding denial deemed discriminatory and unlawful.

The UK government conceded that its decision to block a £14,250 grant to Irish rap group Kneecap was unlawful, discriminatory, and procedurally unfair.
The funding, approved by the British Phonographic Industry, was part of the Music Export Growth Scheme to support UK artists in global markets.
Former business secretary Kemi Badenoch, now Conservative Party leader, had refused the grant, citing the group's opposition to the United Kingdom and provocative political messaging.
Kneecap argued the decision violated their rights to freedom of expression and equality, framing it as an attack on artistic culture and the Good Friday Agreement.
The group donated the grant to two Belfast youth organizations, one nationalist and one unionist, emphasizing their commitment to fostering cross-community support.