Young’s has responded to concerns from a local MP and residents over ‘providing a platform to an individual with a conviction for domestic abuse’ by hosting the upcoming gig
A South London pub will proceed with hosting a singer convicted of domestic assault despite local backlash. Residents raised concerns to Putney MP Fleur Anderson over former Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan’s scheduled gig at The Half Moon, in Putney, on June 26.
Mr Meighan was convicted of assaulting his partner in July 2020, after an attack in April that year. He pleaded guilty at Leicester Magistrates’ Court and was given an 18-month community order and told to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work and complete five days of rehabilitation.
After the conviction, the singer wrote on X: “I am very sorry and deeply regret my recent behaviour. In no way am I trying to condone my actions or make excuses. I am completely to blame and accept all responsibility.”
Kasabian confirmed they had told Mr Meighan to leave the band after the conviction, and he has since launched a solo career.
Labour MP Ms Anderson said residents had contacted her with concerns about Mr Meighan’s sold-out gig at The Half Moon, which is run by Young’s.
In a letter to Young’s CEO Simon Dodd, Ms Anderson said hosting the show was “providing a platform to an individual with a conviction for domestic abuse”.
She said: “At a time when there is a strong national and local focus on supporting victims of domestic abuse and encouraging reporting, platforming this individual raises serious concerns about the message this sends to survivors in the community.
“I would also ask that you give careful consideration to these concerns and whether any further action is appropriate.”
A Young’s spokesperson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that while they recognised the seriousness of Mr Meighan’s past actions, they respected the principle of people being able to move forward after showing accountability and change.
The spokesperson said: “Young’s recognises the strength of feeling surrounding this matter and we appreciate hearing the views of those who care deeply about The Half Moon and the wider community.
“Young’s does not in any way condone domestic abuse, and we fully acknowledge the seriousness of Mr Meighan’s past actions. In reaching our decision to proceed with the event, we have considered the fact that he accepted responsibility for his actions in a court of law and served his sentence in the community. He has also issued a public apology and has taken steps towards rehabilitation.
“Whilst this does not diminish the seriousness of what occurred, we also respect the principle that individuals should have the opportunity to move forward with their lives after demonstrating accountability and change. Having reflected on these factors, and the views of our customers and colleagues, we took the decision that the performance should go ahead as planned.
“We understand that some people may disagree with this decision and we have heard and respect those views. The Half Moon remains committed to ensuring our venue is a safe, respectful and welcoming space for customers, artists and our teams alike, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your concerns with us.”
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