"Reform UK council takes down St George and Union flags citing safety concerns"

A council led by Reform has begun taking down displays of the St George’s cross and the Union flag after worries were raised about potential safety hazards.

Durham County Council released a statement on X on Friday, explaining that while they "recognize and value the community’s wish to display national pride, celebration, or remembrance, it is crucial to ensure such displays do not endanger public safety."

The council stated it had "no option but to remove the bunting" after an assessment found the ropes used were strong enough that if a tall vehicle snagged them, the supporting poles could be pulled down.

The statement emphasized that the council’s "main focus is to maintain the safety and stability of the highway network while being considerate of the communities we serve." It urged residents "to choose safer and more suitable locations for flags or other displays that avoid highway structures and comply with all relevant standards and rules."

In recent weeks, debates have intensified over the growing number of flags appearing in English towns. Some view them as expressions of national pride, while others see the trend as tied to far-right and anti-migrant sentiment. Cases of vandalism have been reported, including red paint being added to white roundabouts to mimic the St George’s cross.

Different councils have responded in varied ways. Those under Lib Dem and Labour control, such as Hertfordshire and Brighton councils, have confirmed flag removals, with Brighton stating that "removing items from lamp posts or defaced roundabouts is standard procedure, following health and safety responsibilities."

Darren Grimes, a political commentator who serves as deputy leader of Durham County Council and a Reform UK member, has frequently discussed flag displays on his X account, sharing a video with the caption: "This isn’t just about flags. It’s the beginning of a pushback."

Reform MP Lee Anderson has also repeatedly called for more flags nationwide, posting a letter he wrote to the government five years ago with the message: "It’s been nearly five years since I asked the last government to fly the Union flag on every public building. Still waiting for a reply."

Grimes has also voiced support for Union flags on bridges while criticizing the display of Pakistani, Palestinian, and LGBTQ+ pride flags across the country.

The issue has drawn attention beyond the UK, with tech entrepreneur and vocal Reform UK backer Elon Musk sharing an image of the St George’s cross on his platform.