Overview

• Birmingham, Tower Hamlets and other councils removed St George’s and Union flags attached to street furniture, pointing to routine maintenance, safety and formal flag policies.
• Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called the removals “shameful” in a Daily Mail op‑ed, alleging selective enforcement against English flags.
• Downing Street said the Prime Minister is “absolutely” supportive of people putting up English flags and reiterated his pride in being British.
• Police are investigating related incidents, with West Mercia Police treating cases in Bromsgrove as suspected criminal damage.
• Organisers behind Operation Raise the Colours say the displays promote civic pride, while some local figures warn of far‑right co‑option and intimidation, and retailers report surging sales of St George’s flags.