A Reform UK councillor has called for Pride flags to no longer be flown outside Southampton's Civic Centre, arguing that the city council should restrict flag displays to national and civic symbols.
Philip Crook, who was elected to Southampton City Council in May, has tabled a motion seeking to limit flag flying at the council's headquarters to the Union flag, the St George's flag and Southampton's city flag. The proposal is due to be debated by the Labour-run authority at a full council meeting.
If approved, the move would prevent a range of flags currently flown at the Civic Centre from being displayed, including Pride flags and banners marking occasions such as Black History Month, Windrush Day, International Women's Day and Vaisakhi. Under the council's existing protocol, a number of commemorative and community flags are flown throughout the year.
Crook said the proposal was intended to promote unity and avoid controversy. "I thought let's have one unifying flag that over centuries has represented us in good times and bad times," he said. "It unifies us as a country and that's the main purpose behind it and it removes any controversy."
Local groups Southampton Pride and Trans Pride Southampton have voiced opposition, announcing an emergency protest.
In a statement posted on Facebook, Southampton Pride said: “For many people, a Pride flag is not simply a piece of fabric.
“It is a visible sign that says, ‘you are welcome here, you belong here, you will be treated with dignity and respect’.
“When local authorities choose to fly the Pride flag during Pride month or significant occasions, they are not elevating one community above another.
“They are recognising a community that has historically faced discrimination, exclusion and violence, while making a clear public commitment that everyone should be able to participate equally in civic life.”
The statement adds: “Sometimes inclusion also requires visible acts that reassure communities who continue to experience prejudice that they are seen, valued and protected.”
Trans Pride Southampton called on the council to expand its use of Pride flags.
The group’s statement said: “This is a very hard time for especially trans people right not, and we call on the council to show solidarity with our community.
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