English actor Ross Kemp expresses his pride in England and denounces far-right extremists who he believes are misusing the nation's flag.
In a series of recent events, Conservative MP Kemi Badenoch has been vocal about her views on the display of national flags in England, particularly the St George's flag. The controversy began when Tower Hamlets Council workers took down St George flags put up by 'Operation Raise The Colours', sparking a debate about flag etiquette and local authority's role in such matters.
Badenoch, the Conservative leader, has accused local authorities of double standards, citing instances where Palestinian banners and markings for other countries' independence days have been allowed. She has also been critical of Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, accusing him of using the English flag as a 'football prop'.
In an article, Badenoch argued that the flag of St George predates the Union flag and should not be controversial to be proud of it. She stated that it shouldn't be a revolutionary act to fly the English flag in England. The Prime Minister's spokesman, however, clarified that Starmer is 'absolutely' supportive of people putting up English flags.
The controversy over the display of St George's flags has not been limited to Tower Hamlets. Town halls across the country have condemned the painting of St George's Crosses on mini-roundabouts. Badenoch has claimed that the denigration of anything British in the name of 'diversity' is divisive and it must stop.
Meanwhile, a separate issue has arisen with protests across Britain held in front of migrant hotels. The lack of political groups classifying Ross Kemp's wearing of Union Jack and St George's flags as far-right extremist has raised questions about the nature of these protests and the motivations behind them.
As the debate continues, it is clear that the issue of national pride and the display of national symbols is a complex and sensitive one, with different perspectives being expressed by political leaders and the public alike.
