Reform UK mayor accuses government of two-tier justice over Bob Vylan's chants

In the United Kingdom, during the Glastonbury Festival on June 28, 2025, rapper Bob Vylan led a crowd in chants that included offensive phrases, notably 'Death, death to the IDF'. This performance was broadcast live by the BBC, prompting widespread criticism and concerns regarding potential speech crimes. Reform UK mayor of Greater Lincolnshire, Andrea Jenkyns, argued that the lack of police action against Vylan's chants could highlight a troubling two-tiered justice system. She contrasted this with the case of Lucy Connolly, who was sentenced to 31 months in prison for inciting racial hatred online following the Southport attacks, suggesting that the government is inconsistent in its application of law based on public figures' status. The BBC later acknowledged that the sentiments expressed during the performance were deeply offensive, conveying their regret for airing it. They recognized that they should have suspended the stream during the performance. The broadcasting regulator has also stated that the BBC's actions raise questions regarding adherence to broadcasting laws. As authorities begin investigating potential illegal content in Vylan’s speech, criticisms surrounding the implications of selective enforcement from the government have spurred wider conversations about freedom of expression and hate speech in the UK. In response, Chris Philp, the Conservative Party’s Shadow Home Secretary, asserted that it was clear Vylan had incited hatred and violence, insisting he should face prosecution similar to that of Lucy Connolly. Philp's remarks echoed a growing sentiment that there is an inconsistency in the way the legal system deals with cases of speech, especially in light of prior government actions on similar issues. His comparison of Vylan’s case to Connolly’s indicates a rising concern about the fairness of legal standards being applied to differing socio-political groups. Amidst this debate, officials such as Lord Hermer, the UK Attorney General, rejected the notion of a two-tier system as 'disgusting' and warned of dangers to crucial institutions posed by such claims. Meanwhile, the Glastonbury Festival's organizers condemned Vylan's remarks and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring their platform does not facilitate hate speech or incitement to violence. They emphasized their need to urge speakers and performers about the boundaries of acceptable discourse at the festival. The discourse surrounding the events at the Glastonbury Festival mirrors a larger, ongoing conflict regarding cultural expression, political commentary, and the laws governing them in the UK. As societal responses continue to evolve, the outcomes of the police investigation into the matter remain to be seen, impacting public perception of fairness in the application of justice, especially regarding politically charged speech.