Birmingham City Council has come under fire from Reform UK MP Lee Anderson after announcing the removal of England flags and Union Jacks that had been erected on lampposts in the Weoley Castle and Northfield areas. The council cited public safety concerns, stating that unauthorised attachments could endanger lives and risk accidents for motorists and pedestrians.
The council claimed it has already removed around 200 such banners and flags since the start of the year. A spokesman warned that attaching items to street furniture, especially tall structures like lampposts, can be dangerous. The removal is reportedly being carried out in conjunction with upgrades to LED lighting in the area.
Lee Anderson criticised the move, telling the Express: “The biggest risk to safety in Birmingham is the imbeciles running the council.” Labour councillor Jamie Tennant, in a WhatsApp message, suggested the flags were put up by “a couple of people spoiling for a fight for political reasons” and that the council was “taking it slow and steady so not giving them what they want.”
The controversy follows the council lighting up the city’s library in Pakistan’s flag colours for its 77th independence day, drawing accusations of double standards. Commentator Henry Bolton fumed: “Birmingham City Council lights up their offices to celebrate Pakistan Independence Day but wants to remove St George flags and Union Jacks.”
Local residents have expressed support for the flag displays, with Nick Procter calling them “absolutely glorious to see” and Dr Helen Ingram stating they have “reinvigorated our collective pride and community spirit.” The council maintains its actions are for safety reasons.
