The United Kingdom government has refused US rapper Kanye West entry into the country, blocking his planned headline performance at a London music festival in July, the BBC reported on Tuesday.
West had applied to travel to Britain on Monday to perform at the Wireless Festival in Finsbury Park, London, as part of his European comeback tour.
The Home Office said his presence “would not be conducive to the public good,” according to the broadcaster.
The decision follows widespread backlash over West’s previous antisemitic remarks, which have drawn condemnation from both the public and industry stakeholders.
The rapper was scheduled to perform across all three nights of the festival, which is a major summer event in London, attracting international music acts and large audiences.
Festival organisers have yet to announce how they plan to respond to the UK government’s decision, including whether replacement artists will be booked or refunds offered.
West’s European tour had been intended to mark a return to live performances following several years of sporadic appearances and controversial statements.
The UK leg was seen as a major stop, generating significant media and fan attention.
Legal analysts note that the Home Office retains discretionary powers to deny entry to individuals whose presence is considered contrary to public welfare, a provision that has been applied in previous cases involving entertainers and public figures.
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