MORE than 1,300 prominent artists have accused art institutions of censorship on Palestine.

The open letter, published today, has been signed by stars including actor Olivia Colman, film director Ken Loach and Massive Attack singer-songwriter Robert del Naja.

They accuse arts organisations of a “disturbing double standard,” saying: “Expressions of solidarity readily offered to other peoples facing brutal oppression, have not been extended to Palestinians.

“Such a discrepancy raises serious questions about bias in the response to grave human rights violations.

“Far from supporting our calls for an end to the violence, many cultural institutions in Western countries are systematically repressing, silencing and stigmatising Palestinian voices and perspectives.

“This includes targeting and threatening the livelihoods of artists and arts workers who express solidarity with Palestinians, as well as cancelling performances, screenings, talks, exhibitions and book launches.”

The letter calls on the arts and culture sector to publicly demand a permanent ceasefire and promote and amplify the voices of Palestinian artists, writers, and thinkers.

It also demands the sector stand up for artists and workers supporting Palestinian rights, and refuse collaborations with institutions that are complicit in severe human rights violations.