The daughter of murdered MP Sir David Amess has condemned the Metropolitan Police's decision not to charge rap group Kneecap for allegedly telling fans to "kill your local MP". Katie Amess described the ruling as "deeply disappointing" and warned that threats against public servants were being normalised.
Videos posted online appeared to show the Belfast-based trio shouting "up Hamas, up Hezbollah", with one clip from November 2023 appearing to show a member saying: "The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP."
Police cite time limits
The Metropolitan Police said no further action would be taken because any alleged minor offences were "beyond the statutory time limit for prosecution". The force added that more serious offences were considered but no charges would be brought based on available evidence.
Ms Amess told PA that the comments were "deeply upsetting" for her family when they became aware of them. She emphasised there must be "no place in our society for hate speech or calls for violence".
Consequences "all too real"
"Anyone who incites or encourages harm against others should be held fully to account and face the full force of the law," Ms Amess said. "We cannot stand by while threats against public servants are normalised or brushed aside."
She added: "The consequences of such rhetoric are all too real and devastating as my family sadly know only too well."
Group previously apologised
Kneecap had previously apologised to the families of murdered MPs but claimed footage of the incident had been "exploited and weaponised". The Met acknowledged the impact their decision may have on MPs and their staff.
"The safety and security of MPs is something that is taken extremely seriously across the whole of policing," a Met statement said. MPs concerned about their safety can contact their dedicated local Operation Bridger officer for advice and support.
Separate investigation ongoing
In a separate probe, police are investigating whether one of the trio suggested fans "start a riot" outside his bandmate's upcoming court appearance. Liam Og O hAnnaidh, who performs under the name Mo Chara, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 20 August 2025.
He faces charges after allegedly displaying a flag in support of proscribed terrorist organisation Hezbollah at a gig in November last year.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
