Schools and libraries across parts of the UK remove or review David Walliams’ children’s books following allegations of sexual offences against him.
Several outlets report that educators are making case-by-case decisions, sometimes withdrawing books from library shelves while others keep them. The BBC and The Independent say schools, libraries and parents face difficult choices and that some school leaders are seeking government guidance on what to do with the books in light of the claims. The Manchester Evening News also reports actions in Greater Manchester, including books being removed from schools to “protect children,” while a separate Manchester Evening News piece says a childhood school is reviewing whether to pull the books.
Some outlets emphasise the alleged background to the decisions, including claims of sexual offences against a number of women. Others focus more on the effect on pupils and the responses from parents and teachers, such as concerns about children being “traumatised” after hearing reports. The Independent and Daily Record highlight calls for guidance or removal, while the Evening Standard focuses on Camden Council taking books off library shelves in London.
