Council Leader says flying flags on lamposts is an act of intimidation and division
31/03/2026
A formal legal notice has been issued to the campaign group Raise the Colours
Is the flying of the Union Jack and St George’s flag on lamp posts around our area a sign of patriotism or an act of intimidation and division?
The leader of Oxfordshire County Council believes it’s the latter. What’s more Liz Leffman says its having a real and damaging impact on our communities.
The council yesterday issued a formal legal notice to the campaign group Raise the Colours requiring them to stop installing flags on or near highways without consent. If they don’t comply the council says it will consider all available options, potentially including civil and criminal proceedings against the organisation.
Councillor Leffman said: “The scale and persistence of this activity is affecting communities across Oxfordshire.
“We are proud of our diverse communities in Oxfordshire and of being the first county council to be awarded Local Authority of Sanctuary status. We proudly fly the Union Jack and St George’s flags, which are visible symbols of democracy and unity.
“However, the widespread installation of flags by Raise the Colours is not a sign of patriotism. It is an act of intimidation and division that is having a real and damaging impact on our communities.
“Our residents report feeling distressed, unwelcome and unsafe in their own neighbourhoods. Our teams removing the flags, together with residents who have challenged the individuals installing them, have been subject to abuse and threatening behaviour. This is totally unacceptable.
“The council has a responsibility to act where behaviour undermines community cohesion and the safe and inclusive use of public spaces. That is why we are taking firm action.
“We won’t hesitate to take further legal steps where necessary to protect residents and support the cohesion of our communities.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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