Oxfordshire County Council is pursuing a High Court injunction to ban the flying of flags near public highways, a move critics call an attack on patriotism. The hearing is set for Tuesday, coinciding with England's World Cup match against Ghana. Council leader Tim Bearder argues the flags cause fear and division, but opponents accuse him of hypocrisy and virtue-signalling.
Council's Legal Bid Targets Flag Displays
The council has already spent £15,000 of taxpayers' money removing over 300 Union and St George's flags from lamp posts at a cost of £45 per flag. If the injunction succeeds, offenders could face up to two years in prison or an unlimited fine. The council claims the activity is unlawful and has caused community tension.
Hypocrisy Allegations Over EU Flag
Bearder's mother, Catherine Bearder, a former MEP, previously criticised Oxford City Council for ordering her to remove an EU flag from her home in 2024. She said the council should prioritise homelessness and community services over flag policing. Her son's stance has drawn accusations of double standards.
Political Backlash and Public Opinion
Tory Party chairman Kevin Hollinrake called on the council to 'get off their virtue-signalling high horse,' stating, 'We should be unashamedly proud of our national identity.' Former football manager Harry Redknapp said, 'Fly your flags, be proud of your country. Don't be ashamed to be British.'
Council's Priorities Questioned
Critics note that Oxfordshire has among the highest council tax rates and some of the worst roads in the country. The timing of the bid, during the World Cup, has been described as 'perverse.' The council insists the application is about protecting residents and upholding values, not suppressing patriotism.
