Reform UK-led Kent County Council criticised after refusing to fly Pride flag during LGBTQ+ History Month

Reform UK-led Kent County Council has come under fire from opposition councillors and LGBTQ+ campaigners after confirming it will not fly the Pride flag during LGBTQ+ History Month. The decision follows a wider shift in policy by the newly elected Reform UK‑led administration, which has vowed to restrict official flag‑flying to the Union Flag, the St George’s Cross and the Kent county flag.

The council’s stance was first signalled in May 2025, when Reform UK took control of Kent County Council in a landslide victory, winning 57 of 81 seats and ending nearly three decades of Conservative rule. During the council’s annual meeting that month, leader Linden Kemkaran dismissed Pride and other community flags as representing “special interest groups”, underscoring her administration’s focus on what she described as “shared identity” symbols.

The position was reinforced by the newly appointed council chairman, who formally confirmed that the Pride flag would not be flown on any council buildings. Under the revised policy, only national, county and Armed Forces- related flags may be displayed. 

Local Liberal Democrat councillor Mike Sole condemned the decision, arguing that flying the Pride flag is a visible and vital affirmation of the council’s commitment to equality. He warned that withdrawing such gestures risks signalling indifference to the challenges still faced by LGBTQ+ residents, including discrimination and under‑representation. 

Critics across the political spectrum have warned that the policy risks deepening divisions and sends the wrong message during LGBTQ+ History Month - a period intended to celebrate progress and highlight ongoing inequalities. Some opposition members also likened the tone of the administration’s earlier announcements to a “political rally”, accusing Reform UK councillors of prioritising ideology over inclusion. 

Kent County Council has so far shown no sign of reversing its decision, despite growing calls from campaigners and local politicians for the Pride flag to be reinstated as a symbol of support for the county’s LGBTQ+ community.