Reform Britain has come under fire for allegedly attempting to “ban” the display of Ukrainian flags on council properties. This accusation arose after the party’s leadership declared that only the St. George and Union flags would be permitted at British Council-controlled locations.
On Monday, party chair Zia Yusuf ignited controversy as newly elected local governments that took control in last week’s elections revealed their upcoming policies.
“The reformed UK Council will act swiftly to ensure that the only flags flying on council premises are the Union Jack and St. George’s flags,” Yusuf stated on X.
He added, “No other flags are to be displayed on flagpoles, balconies, reception areas, or council chambers.”
This declaration seemed to target the Pride flag, prompting backlash from both workers and Conservative lawmakers.
A spokesman for Reform Britain later emphasized, “We proudly display the Union Jack, St. George’s flags, and county flags. Unlike the Tories and Labour, we take pride in our nation and its history.”
However, criticisms persisted due to the party’s clear policies that appear to dismiss the inclusion of the Ukrainian flag, which had been present in council buildings since the onset of Russia’s invasion. Last week, the Ukrainian flag was seen flying over Grimsby Town Hall, coinciding with the party celebrating a significant victory in securing the mayorship in Lincolnshire.
Labour MP Mike Tap from Dover and Deal commented on Monday, “This speaks volumes about Nigel Farage’s reforms—his first act after winning the election is to restrict the Ukrainian flag in town halls.” He urged Reform councillors to cease their alignment with Moscow and allow Ukrainian flags to remain.
The party’s stance on Russia has been a longstanding vulnerability. Critics often use it to highlight Farage’s earlier remarks regarding NATO and the EU, accusing him of suggesting that Russia was “provoked” by the West’s actions.
Following last week’s local elections, Reform Britain now controls ten councils across the UK, including areas such as Durham, Lancashire, Staffordshire, and Kent, making it the largest party in numerous local governance bodies, including Leicestershire County Council.
Dr. Luke Evans, a Conservative MP for Hinckley and Bosworth, raised the question of whether Leicestershire County Council would also be prohibited from flying the county’s own flag.
