Death threats against JK Rowling are 'appalling', says Archbishop

The Archbishop of Canterbury has spoken out after a death threat was made against JK Rowling.

The Harry Potter author was threatened after tweeting her support for Sir Salman Rushdie, who was attacked in Chautauqua, New York state, on Friday.

Rowling tweeted: "Feeling very sick right now. Let him be ok."

In response to her post, a Twitter user replied, "Don't worry you are next."

Rowling said she is working with the police after the threat. 

"To all sending supportive messages: thank you. Police are involved (were already involved on other threats)," she posted later.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has strongly criticised the death threat against Rowling, saying that it undermines vital freedoms.

"It is appalling that there are threats to JK Rowling after her support for Salman Rushdie," he said.

"Threats and attacks undermine the freedom on which we all rely to be able to comment. Prayer and much sympathy for both."

News
Archbishop of Canterbury calls for peace in first Easter sermon
Archbishop of Canterbury calls for peace in first Easter sermon

Dame Sarah Mullally has used her first Easter Day sermon as Archbishop of Canterbury to renew calls for peace in the Middle East. 

Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection
Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection

The hope of the resurrection is especially precious in a world filled with grief, violence, uncertainty, and pain.

Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria
Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria

The Syriacs are mostly Christian.

New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities
New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities

Jim Shannon MP said the report records both “the progress observed” and “the ongoing challenges” that remain for religious minorities seeking to live in safety and freedom in Iraq.