Oxfordshire County Council is seeking to halt the practice of hanging flags on lampposts throughout the county, citing concerns about causing fear and division among the community. The Council has taken legal action by applying for an injunction in the High Court to stop the flag-hanging campaign conducted by Raise the Colours activists. This group has been placing Union Jack and St George’s Cross flags along roads in the county for the past year.
The decision to seek an injunction follows previous warnings issued by the Liberal Democrat-led council to the campaigners, demanding they cease their activities. Numerous complaints, totaling over 200, have been lodged by residents regarding the flags.
Council leader Tim Bearder emphasized that the injunction application aims to safeguard residents, council staff, and the core values of the county. He clarified that the issue is not about national pride or unity but rather concerns unlawful behavior causing fear and division within communities.
The council highlighted that the flag placements, done without permission, have posed safety hazards and upset local residents. Tragically, incidents related to both putting up and taking down flags have resulted in serious injuries and even fatalities. For instance, a fatal accident occurred in Bedminster, Bristol, when a man fell from a ladder while attempting to hang a Union flag. In another incident in Stirchley, Birmingham, a man was run over by a van while removing flags, sustaining severe injuries.
The council further noted instances of abuse and intimidation directed at staff, contractors, and residents during flag removal operations, leading to significant costs exceeding £16,000 for the council.
Legal proceedings have been initiated by the High Court, with a hearing scheduled at the Royal Courts of Justice on June 23. If approved, the injunction would prohibit unauthorized flag installations near or on highways, empowering the council to take enforcement actions against any breaches.
Mr. Bearder expressed pride in Oxfordshire’s diverse communities and Sanctuary status, acknowledging the significance of lawful expression while emphasizing the need to avoid activities that endanger individuals or intimidate community members.
In a separate development, Billy Allison, a co-founder of Raise the Colours, faces murder charges related to an incident in Lichfield. The incident occurred on May 24 at the Ricco and Loren bar, resulting in the death of Matthew O’Gara, the director of a local pub, and injuries to another individual, Adam Cooper.
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