Portsmouth City Council has removed St George's flags from balconies, citing fire safety regulations as the reason for the action taken just before England's World Cup semi-final match against Argentina. The Liberal Democrat-led council's move has ignited controversy, with critics accusing the local authority of overreach and a lack of national pride.
Footage shared online by Reform Councillor George Madgwick shows council workers removing an English flag from a balcony. Madgwick described the incident as "shocking," and Reform MP Suella Braverman has called for an investigation into the matter. Braverman urged Portsmouth City Council leader Steve Pitt to halt such removals, stating that flying the English flag is a "symbol of pride that everyone, no matter what their political persuasion, should be getting behind."
"No other country in the world would be taking down its own national flag," Braverman wrote in a letter calling for a probe. She also highlighted Portsmouth's historical significance, noting that the Royal Navy is based there and HMS Victory is docked in the city. She referenced the 1982 Falklands War, stating that a Royal Task Force set off from Portsmouth to liberate the islands.
Councillor Madgwick argued that there is no genuine fire risk associated with flags displayed on steel railings or concrete. He suggested that the resident was simply showing pride in their country for the World Cup and that the council should have exercised discretion. Madgwick called for an apology and for the flag to be reinstated until the tournament concludes.
This is not the first time Portsmouth City Council has removed national symbols. Last summer, the council removed English cross markings from buildings and roads, citing concerns about property damage, unauthorized graffiti, and association with the controversial "Raise the Colours" campaign.
In a similar incident in Bristol, a Green Party-led council advised residents not to fly England flags on public property during the World Cup. However, residents on Torrington Avenue reportedly ignored the council's guidance and decorated their street with flags.
A spokesperson for Portsmouth City Council defended the flag removal, emphasizing compliance with their fire safety policy, which they stated is reinforced by Hampshire Fire & Rescue and the Fire Safety Act. The policy requires communal balconies to be kept clear of items that could catch fire, spread fire, or obstruct safe access. The council stated that they consulted with Hampshire Fire & Rescue, who agreed with the approach to maintain clear communal balconies for fire safety reasons. Residents are permitted to display flags inside their homes, such as in windows, to show support while adhering to safety guidelines.