Overview

• Reform UK, after gaining control of 10 councils in recent local elections, announced a policy restricting flags on public buildings to the Union Jack, St George’s Cross, and county flags.
• The policy bans the display of all other flags, including the Ukrainian flag and Pride flag, sparking criticism from Labour, Conservatives, and Liberal Democrats.
• Reform UK clarified that historic county flags would still be allowed after initial backlash over their perceived exclusion.
• Critics argue the decision undermines symbols of international solidarity and diversity, with Labour MPs accusing the party of aligning with pro-Russian sentiment.
• Reform UK defends the policy as a patriotic measure and an alternative to what it describes as 'woke' priorities of other political parties.