Publisher cancels Adams book deal

A leading British publishing house has confirmed it has withdrawn from a major book deal with Gerry Adams in the wake of the 11 September attacks on the United States.

The move was described by the Sinn Fein leader's Irish publishers, Brandon, as "extraordinary and unprofessional".

In a statement on Friday, London-based publishers Headline said: "We are not commenting on this. We are not publishing this book."

It is understood the book, entitled Hope and History - Making Peace in Ireland, will make a substantial amount of money for Mr Adams.

He recently visited the Frankfurt Book Fair to promote it.

Approaches

The managing director of Kerry-based Brandon Publishing, Steve MacDonogh, said the company had been approached by several publishers at the fair.

This is highly unusual for Headline to have done this

Steve MacDonogh, Brandon Publishing

He said the publication of the West Belfast MP's book would not be delayed.

"I can confirm that Headline have cancelled," he said.

"Random House is still publishing the book in the United States and we have had offers from other UK publishers.

"This is highly unusual for Headline to have done this - they have unilaterally cancelled.

"The reasons they gave are bizarre. They cited 11 September and cited worldwide reaction to 11 September.

"But my view is that in light of 11 September this book is more relevant than ever because it is a story of a move from a period of conflict to a search for peace."

Mr MacDonogh said there had been an overwhelming interest in the book in Frankfurt.

"Headline's heart was not in it, but we will have no trouble doing a deal over the UK and Commonwealth rights. We will get another publisher."