Overview

• We are appealing the decision to dismiss this case as we believe there is an important point of law which needs to be clarified, the CPS said in a statement.
• Chief magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled the proceedings unlawful and null because required AG/DPP consent was not in place within the six‑month limit; the charge was issued by post on May 21 and AG consent followed on May 22.
• The dispute focuses on whether consent must be obtained before charging, as the court found, or whether it suffices to have consent before the first court appearance, as the CPS argues.
• Prosecutors allege Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh displayed a Hezbollah flag and shouted supportive slogans at a November 2024 London concert; the artist and band deny supporting banned groups.
• Kneecap condemned the appeal as a waste of taxpayers’ money and political policing, while Attorney General Lord Hermer warned Robert Jenrick to avoid comments that could prejudice future proceedings; no High Court hearing date has been set.