Council approves 'divisive' new policy on flags

A council has approved a "divisive" policy change which will mean it no longer flies an LGBTQ+ rainbow flag from any of its buildings.

The newly elected Reform UK administration on West Northamptonshire Council made changes to the local authority's flag protocol after coming to power last month, and it was formally passed on Thursday.

Council leader Mark Arnull said its "revised approach ensures consistent and respectful use of public buildings."

But Conservative councillor David Smith called on the authority to "think again" on the protocol, which dictates that only the union jack, St George's flag and council flag will be flown outside its buildings.

The administration previously said it remained "committed to supporting community-led events and activities", including Pride, despite the change of policy.

In Thursday's full council meeting at the Guildhall in Northampton, 40 ward councillors voted in favour of the new policy and 26 against it, while one councillor abstained.

Under the new flag protocol, the council said additional flags would be flown on specified dates for royal or national occasions.

It is flying flags this week to mark Armed Forces Day, but no flag has been flown to reflect this month's international Pride month, as has been the case in previous years.

Speaking before the vote, Arnull said: "The administration maintains our support for community-led events and inclusive engagement across West Northamptonshire, and I state for the record this administration supports all community groups everywhere."

However, the move was heavily criticised by opposition parties on the council.

Tory councillor Smith said the Reform administration had "no manifesto" and "no strategic vision".

He added: "Your only notable initiative is a divisive flag policy that sidelines symbols of inclusion and unity. [It] is shameful you doing this, you should think again. Understand the community you now represent, and do the right thing and actually vote against this."

Labour councillor Zoe Smith, who attended the meeting in a rainbow-themed dress, said: "Our community, my community, will not be erased by a flag protocol, but it does diminish dignity and civic responsibility of this council and the way we represent all our people to remove respect for the LGBT community and others."

The enforcement of the policy means that no flag will be flown for a number of events, as in previous years.

Martin Cole, the co-founder of the Northampton Windrush Generation organisation, said his group was "heartbroken" by the policy change.

He added: "This decision is not only unjust but strikes at the heart of our values. As a society that celebrates diversity, inclusion and the rich tapestry of cultures that define us.

"The Windrush generation has long stood as a symbol of resilience, unity, multi-culturalism, the very essence of British identity. Raising global flags is more than a symbolic act.

"It is a statement of solidarity recognition and respect for the communities that have contributed to the vibrancy of this nation."

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