Police Conduct Interview Following Glastonbury Stage Comments
A man in his mid-30s has been interviewed under caution by Avon and Somerset Police in connection with comments made during the Bob Vylan performance at Glastonbury Festival in June. The individual, who has not been named, attended a voluntary police interview on Monday and was not formally arrested.
The On-Stage Incident That Sparked Investigation
The investigation centres on remarks made by Pascal Robinson-Foster, known professionally as Bobby Vylan, during the duo's set on the West Holts stage. The rap-punk artist led festival-goers in chants of "Death, death to the IDF", referring to the Israel Defense Forces.
In response to the subsequent controversy, Robinson-Foster defended his actions in an Instagram statement, suggesting they would encourage younger generations to "speak up for the change they want".
Complex Legal Process Preceded Interview
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed they had been seeking early legal advice from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) since the incident occurred. The force received CPS advice during the week commencing Monday 20 October before proceeding with the voluntary interview.
A police statement explained: "It has been important for us to have a full understanding of any legal precedents, which is a complex process. The matter has been recorded as a public order incident while we continue to investigate and consider all relevant legislation."
The statement clarified that voluntary police interviews are commonly used when an arrest isn't considered necessary, and attendees maintain the same legal rights as those who are arrested.
This development follows the police's earlier announcement that they would also investigate comments made by Irish rap trio Kneecap on the same stage, though the force confirmed in July that Kneecap would face no further action.
