Overview

• An online drive dubbed Operation Raise the Colours has prompted widespread displays of St George’s Cross and Union flags on lampposts and public spaces.
• Authorities including Birmingham, Tower Hamlets and Sussex cite safety and legal obligations for removing items from street furniture, with work in Brighton paused after contractors faced verbal abuse.
• Kemi Badenoch called the takedowns shameful and accused councils of double standards, while Robert Jenrick raised Union Flags in his Newark constituency.
• Downing Street said the Prime Minister supports people putting up English flags, and councils such as Cumberland advised residents to keep displays to private property without permissions.
• Staffordshire and Hereford officials are removing St George’s crosses painted on crossings and roundabouts under the Highways Act, as leaders in Dorset and Lewes warn extremists have hijacked the campaign and some residents feel intimidated.