A Labour council leader has sparked outrage after branding activists who display England flags and Union Jacks as paedophiles. Jeremy Newmark, leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, made the comments during a council meeting last week, referring to the activists as 'a bunch of criminals, extremists [and] nonces'.
Mr Newmark condemned the group, known as 'flagtivists', for attempting to 'hijack our national flag'. His outburst drew gasps from opposition councillors, who had asked for guarantees that the flags would not be removed by the council. Conservative councillor Brett Rosehill accused Mr Newmark of 'constantly linking our national flag to extremism', warning it could allow extremists to define the flag instead of reclaiming it for the mainstream.
In response, Mr Newmark blasted: 'I won't be taking lectures on our national flag and extremism from a councillor that has the audacity to speak in almost glowing terms in this question to the council about Operation Raise the Colours.' He falsely claimed the movement was linked to Tommy Robinson, which it is not. Operation Raise the Colours began in August, sparked by opposition to migrant hotels and attempts to suppress English patriotism.
Mr Newmark has since apologised for his remarks, stating: 'I accept that some of the language I used was wrong and am sorry for that. I also accept that some people have ascribed a broader meaning to my words and am very sorry about that indeed.' He said his comments came against the backdrop of false claims by Tommy Robinson about the council housing asylum seekers.
The incident follows a similar controversy in August, when suspended Labour MP Rachel Maskell was mocked for claiming the flag movement risks the 'break down' of society. She had urged her local council to remove flags, despite the council promising not to take them down.
