The St George's cross is 'intimidating' and has been 'hijacked' by some far-right groups, a council leader has claimed.
Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council, has alleged that the drive to cover British towns and cities in national flags has become 'co-opted by certain far-right groups' in a bid to help 'promote their agendas'.
Under an online movement dubbed 'Operation Raise the Colours', Union Jack and St George's flags are being flown in their masses across numerous UK towns and cities, with activists putting up the flags in defiance of council bans.
Last week, Downing Street backed people flying British or English flags in their local communities. However, amid the ongoing rows between residents and some local councils, No10 declined to comment on 'individual cases'.
Now, Mr Ireland, a Liberal Democrat Councillor, has shared his concerns on what he describes as an 'unacceptable' shift in the campaign.
