Politics
What Sir Keir Starmer actually said about our national flags
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has voiced strong support for the display of national flags, describing himself as “a supporter of flags” and praising them as enduring symbols of national identity and civic pride.
Yet the Prime Minister has also cautioned that such emblems should neither be devalued through overuse nor employed in a manner that risks deepening political or cultural division.
Downing Street has sought to emphasise that patriotism — and pride in flying both the Union flag and the Cross of St George — forms an important part of Sir Keir’s outlook. The intervention follows growing debate in several parts of the country after local authorities opted to remove flags from lampposts and other items of public street furniture.
Officials insist the Prime Minister supports the public’s right to display national flags, particularly on private homes and in gardens.
However, the use of public infrastructure remains a matter for individual councils, many of which cite operational and health-and-safety concerns when determining policy. Local authorities point to a range of practical considerations surrounding the hanging of flags in public spaces.
Poorly secured fittings may become hazardous in high winds, while improperly installed poles or brackets can pose risks to pedestrians and motorists alike. Councils must also consider emergency vehicle access, visibility at road junctions, maintenance costs and potential liability should equipment fail.
Residents wishing to see more flags displayed in their towns and villages are generally encouraged to engage directly with their local authority. This may involve submitting petitions, speaking at council meetings, contacting ward councillors or working alongside local civic societies and veterans’ organisations.
In some areas, “adopt-a-flag” style community schemes have been proposed, allowing residents and businesses to sponsor seasonal displays in shopping districts and high streets. Funding remains a significant obstacle for many councils operating under financial pressure. Nevertheless, several potential models have been
suggested to support a broader “raising the flag” programme without placing undue strain on public finances. These include partnerships with local businesses, sponsorship arrangements for ceremonial displays, modest community fundraising initiatives and grants linked to heritage, tourism or civic engagem-
-ent projects. Business improvement districts and local chambers of commerce may also play a role, particularly where enhanced street decoration is seen as beneficial to town-centre footfall and tourism. For ministers, the debate reflects a broader question about national identity in modern Britain: how patriotism can be
expressed visibly and confidently in public life while balancing practical considerations, local sensitivities and the responsibilities of public authorities.
