Oxfordshire County Council is taking legal action to halt the practice of hanging flags on lampposts throughout the county, citing concerns of causing fear and division within the community.
The council has sought an injunction from the High Court to stop the flag-hanging campaign conducted by activists from Raise the Colours group, who have been displaying Union Jack and St George’s Cross flags along roads in the area for the past year.
Following formal legal notices issued by the Liberal Democrat-led council to the group in March and subsequent warnings to individuals in May, the council has received over 200 complaints from residents regarding the flags.
Council leader Tim Bearder emphasized that the injunction application aims to safeguard residents, council employees, and the county’s core values. He clarified that the issue is not about national pride or unity but rather about unlawful actions that have led to fear and division in local communities.
The council highlighted that the unauthorized placement of flags near public highways has posed safety risks and caused distress among residents. Incidents related to both putting up and removing flags have resulted in serious accidents, including a fatal fall in Bristol and a pedestrian being hit by a van in Birmingham.
Additionally, the council noted instances of abuse and intimidation directed at staff, contractors, and residents involved in flag removal operations, which have incurred costs exceeding £16,000 for the council.
Legal proceedings have been initiated in the High Court, with a hearing scheduled at the Royal Courts of Justice. If approved, the civil injunction would prevent further unauthorized flag installations near highways and enable the council to enforce penalties for non-compliance.
Bearder reaffirmed the council’s support for the diverse communities in Oxfordshire and its Council of Sanctuary status. He stressed the importance of distinguishing between lawful expression and activities that jeopardize public safety or intimidate residents.
The legal action follows a recent incident involving Billy Allison, a founding member of Raise the Colours, who was charged with murder in connection with an altercation in Lichfield. Authorities responded to reports of violence at a local bar, resulting in one fatality and another individual being hospitalized.
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