In a move that has been branded 'utterly bizarre' and 'patronising', a local authority has instructed its employees that they can access support services if the sight of the St George's Cross flag evokes feelings of 'discomfort'.
The guidance, issued by Westminster City Council, was intended to mark St George's Day but instead sparked a fierce backlash for seemingly pathologising pride in English heritage.
The internal message to staff read: 'The St George's flags can evoke different feelings in different people. While some may experience a sense of pride, others may feel unsettled or uncomfortable.' It then directed those affected to the council's employee assistance programme.
Public and Political Backlash
The directive was met with swift condemnation from politicians and the public alike. Critics accused the council of promoting a woke agenda that disrespects national symbols and undermines English identity.
Many questioned why the display of the nation's flag, particularly on its patron saint's day, would be considered a legitimate source of distress requiring professional support.
Council's Justification
Defending the communication, a spokesperson for Westminster City Council stated that the message was part of a wider effort to be supportive of all staff members' wellbeing. They emphasised that the council flies the St George's Cross flag proudly but wanted to acknowledge that symbols can have complex meanings for individuals.
Despite this explanation, the policy has been widely ridiculed on social media and by commentators, who see it as a symbol of excessive political correctness infiltrating local government.
