Council aims to ban flags on lampposts after claims of ‘fear and division’

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleOxfordshire County Council has launched a High Court legal battle seeking an injunction to ban the display of Union Jack and St George's Cross flags from lampposts and other public highway infrastructure. The council's action follows a surge in flags appearing across the UK, including Oxfordshire, since last summer as part of the 'Raise the Colours' social media movement, leading to numerous complaints and reports of 'aggressive behaviour' towards council officers. The local authority stated that the increased number of flags has caused 'fear and division' among communities, citing concerns from residents about 'safety risks, intimidation and distress' linked to their presence. Councillor Tim Bearder, leader of Oxfordshire County Council, clarified that the legal move aims to protect residents and uphold the council's values as a 'Council of Sanctuary', distinguishing between lawful flag display on private property and unlawful, divisive behaviour in public spaces. If granted, the injunction would prohibit the unauthorised placement of flags on public roads and infrastructure, though it would not impact flags on private property unless they obstruct drivers' views; a hearing is scheduled for June 23 at the Royal Courts of Justice. In fullOxfordshire Council seeks to ban England flags from street lamppostsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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