British musician Paul Weller has filed a legal complaint against his former accountants, claiming they unfairly severed ties with him after he made public remarks on the Israel-Gaza conflict.
The singer-songwriter, who first rose to fame with The Jam, worked with Harris and Trotter for over three decades. But in March this year, the London-based firm informed him they would no longer act on behalf of him or his companies. The decision, according to Weller’s legal team, came shortly after he condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and described them as genocide.
A legal letter seen by PA news agency includes a WhatsApp message from one of the firm’s partners. It stated that while Weller was entitled to his own opinions, the firm — which has Jewish roots and several Jewish partners — found his comments offensive and did not wish to continue their professional relationship.
Weller’s lawyers argue that cutting ties amounted to discrimination based on philosophical beliefs, specifically his stance that Palestine should be recognized as a state and that Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide.
Explaining his position, Weller said:
“I’ve always spoken out against injustice, whether it’s apartheid, ethnic cleansing, or genocide. What is happening to Palestinians in Gaza is a humanitarian disaster. They deserve recognition, dignity, and protection under international law. Calling this out is necessary — and punishing people for speaking the truth is complicity.”
The 67-year-old musician also pledged that any compensation he receives from the case will be donated to aid organizations working in Gaza.
His lawyer, Cormac McDonough from Hodge Jones & Allen, said the case highlights a “wider pattern” of attempts to silence public figures who support Palestinian rights. He added that within the music industry especially, there is increasing pressure on artists who show solidarity with Gaza.
Harris and Trotter have been contacted for a response but have not commented publicly.
