Should every town in England fly more Union Jack and St George’s flags? (Image: Birmingham Live)
Scores of English and British flags have been pulled down from lamp posts across the country, sparking backlash from furious locals. It comes after Tower Hamlets became the second authority to tear down any Union Jacks or British flags, which patriotism campaigners tie to lampposts.
The East London council, run by the pro-Gaza Aspire Party, said it would take down the St George’s flags “as soon as possible” after they were put up in recent days. Just days before, British flags were taken down in Birmingham due to safety concerns. Labour-run Birmingham Council, which declared itself broke in September 2023, claimed those attaching flags “could be putting their lives and those of motorists and pedestrians at risk” despite being up to 25ft off the ground.
The debate is raging over the issue of whether every town in England should proudly fly more Union Jack and St George’s flags. So what do you think? Vote in our poll and join the debate in the comments section. Can’t see the poll below? Click here
Critics in Birmingham have pointed out that Palestinian flags have flown elsewhere on the streets of the city since the war in Gaza began in 2023.
Despite being cash-strapped, the council has sparked further fury by illuminating its local library in orange, green, and white to mark India’s independence just hours after it showed the same courtesy to Pakistan.
Birmingham, which has been slashing public services in 2024 to balance its books, has around £194 million owed across all accounts in council tax arrears.
Do you have a similar story? If so, contact: lauran.otoole@reachplc.com