A campaign to cover streets in England flags has sparked a row over patriotism and far-right motives. The Wythall Flaggers group raised over £2,000 for “coating the local community in England flags” in the Worcestershire village. Organisers insist it is not racist, claiming support from all ethnicities and religions.
Footage showed an elderly couple removing a St George’s cross from a lamp-post, with social media users branding them “traitors”. The movement follows widespread display of the flag during the women’s Euro 2022 victory, but now operates amid anti-migrant protests and rising far-right activity.
Anti-racism campaigners warn the campaign gives cover for racism. “We are concerned that the discussion around the English flag and patriotism is giving cover for racism driven by the far right,” said Lewis Nielsen of Stand Up to Racism. He called the movement “dangerous” at a tipping point where the far right is trying to build.
Birmingham City Council said it removes flags from lamp-posts only as part of routine maintenance, not due to any policy. Tower Hamlets council also confirmed removal of St George flags from street furniture, citing responsibility to monitor infrastructure. In response, 12 Reform-controlled councils pledged not to take down such flags, calling them “symbols of unity”.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesperson said he was a “patriot” who believed people should fly the flags, though the PM was not familiar with the specific campaign details.
