David Walliams books removed by London libraries and schools

David Walliams' books are being removed from shelves by some booksellers and libraries in London following allegations of grooming teenage women for sex. The author denies all claims made against him.

Council and School Actions

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Camden Council confirmed it is taking books by the former Britain's Got Talent judge out of public library displays. A council spokesperson stated: "We are committed to making Camden a safer place for women and girls, to challenging harmful attitudes, and promoting healthy relationships. Following these allegations, we believe the most appropriate action is to remove these books from display."

Schools within Camden have been left to make their own decisions about retaining the books. However, other school leaders are recommending their removal. Steve Chalke, founder of the Oasis Charitable Trust, which operates 59 schools across England, including 16 in London and the South East, said the trust has issued guidance to headteachers. "Our advice is, for the sake of our children and to protect our children, the right thing to do... is to remove books from our libraries temporarily," Mr Chalke explained.

Academy trust GLF Schools, which runs 43 schools, also decided to remove Walliams' books from its school libraries. The Association of School and College Leaders has called on the Government to provide guidance for headteachers on this matter.

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Booksellers Respond

Major booksellers are also taking action. Waterstones stated it is in contact with publisher HarperCollins regarding the return of remaining copies. Amazon confirmed it has been in discussions with HarperCollins since the publisher stopped supplying Walliams' backlist in September. Print editions will remain available only while existing stock lasts, according to Amazon.

TGJones, formerly trading as WHSmith, has confirmed it no longer stocks any of David Walliams' books, either in-store or online. The Works, which has around 14 stores in London, has also removed all Walliams titles from sale. A spokesperson for The Works said: "All stores have been notified and have removed all associated products from their shelves."

Publisher and Industry Reaction

HarperCollins dropped David Walliams in December 2025 after an internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour and harassment towards junior female staff. Walliams denied these claims, stating he had never been informed of any allegations or asked to cooperate with the investigation. The Gangsta Granny ride at Alton Towers, named after one of his books, was recently closed. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has warned the entertainment industry to implement safeguards following the claims against Walliams and the conviction of Russell Brand.