Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has criticised councils for removing St George's Cross flags as "shameful" and accused them of selective enforcement of local rules. The flags were taken down by Tower Hamlets and Birmingham councils this week after campaigners attached them as part of an online movement called "Operation Raise the Colours".
Flags appeared on public infrastructure including the A1206 on the Isle of Dogs in east London and various locations across Birmingham before being removed by local authorities. The removals happened despite the approaching VJ Day commemorations.
Writing in the Daily Mail, Badenoch argued that flying English flags should be "welcomed" rather than "seen as an act of rebellion". She said: "After years of politicisation by those who seek to diminish England's culture and Christian heritage, it is encouraging to see English flags flown proudly as symbols of unity, nationhood and optimism."
The Conservative leader specifically criticised the timing of the removals. "So, it is shameful that some councils have scrambled to remove them at the first opportunity, even in the lead-up to VJ Day, while leaving banners of other nations and political causes untouched," she said.
Political Opposition
However, Dorset Council leader Nick Ireland claims the flags have become "intimidating" and been "hijacked by people with unacceptable views", according to the Daily Mail. This represents a significant counter-narrative to Badenoch's patriotism argument.
The Daily Mail reports that Brighton council workers refused to remove flags without police protection due to verbal abuse from activists. This highlights the tension surrounding the flag campaign and the safety concerns it has generated.
Government Position
Downing Street confirmed Prime Minister Keir Starmer (Labour) is "absolutely" supportive of people flying English flags. His spokesman said: "I think the PM has always talked about his pride of being British, the patriotism he feels."
The spokesman pointed to Downing Street's practice of flying English flags during football tournaments. "We put up English flags all around Downing Street every time the English football team - women's and men's - are out trying to win games for us," he said.
Council Responses
Tower Hamlets Council said it has a policy governing which flags are flown from council buildings and when. The council stated: "While we recognise people wish to express their views, we have a responsibility to monitor and maintain council infrastructure."
Birmingham City Council emphasised it "proudly flies the Union flag outside the Council House every day" and recognises the importance of both the Union flag and St George's flag. The council said removing items from lamp posts is "normal council procedure" for health and safety reasons.
Sources used: "PA Media", "Daily Mail", "The Standard"
Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
