Paul Weller sues Harris and Trotter over Gaza-related political views

Paul Weller has launched a discrimination claim against the London accounting firm Harris and Trotter after the firm ended its three-decade relationship with the former Jam frontman in response to his public criticisms of Israel’s actions in Gaza. The musician, who has been outspoken in support of Palestinian rights and is planning a Gaza-focused benefit concert, contends that the move constitutes unlawful discrimination against his protected philosophical beliefs. He has said any damages won would be donated to humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza.

The dispute centers on a preaction letter from Weller’s lawyers, which states that the firm informed Weller in March that it would no longer work with him or his companies. A WhatsApp message from a partner reportedly framed the decision in terms of the singer’s political views on Israel, the Palestinians and Gaza, noting that the firm, with Jewish roots and many Jewish partners, was not prepared to work with someone who held those views. Lawyers for Weller argue that terminating the business relationship because of his beliefs amounts to discrimination on the basis of protected philosophical beliefs, including that Israel is...