Cambridge County Council has announced its intention to remove England flags from lamp posts during the upcoming World Cup, with the council leader deeming such displays "inappropriate" if not conducted in a "safe, inclusive way and with permission." The decision comes as flags have become a common sight on street lights in the Cambridgeshire area in anticipation of England's matches.
Council leader Lucy Nethsingha stated that while showing support is "fantastic," attaching flags to public lamp posts without authorization is "incredibly reckless and risks lives." She indicated that the council will be removing all unauthorized flags and is exploring measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
This policy aligns with actions taken by other local authorities. Bristol City Council, run by the Green Party, previously advised residents against displaying England flags on public property, citing concerns about them not being "welcoming" and posing health and safety risks. Despite this, some areas, like Torrington Avenue in Bristol, have seen widespread flag displays.
In Oxfordshire, the Liberal Democrat-run county council secured a High Court injunction last week prohibiting the flying of flags on or near public highways. The council cited complaints from residents regarding safety risks, intimidation, and distress associated with the displays, which have been promoted by a campaign called "Operation Raise the Colours." This campaign has faced criticism for its alleged links to far-right groups, including accepting a donation from Britain First.
Oxfordshire County Council reported spending approximately £15,000 to remove and paint over over 333 Union and St George's cross flags, at an average cost of £45 per flag, in January. One organizer of the "Operation Raise the Colours" campaign, Andy Saxon, has distanced the group from far-right labels and expressed support for Tommy Robinson.