Wednesday, September 10, 2003

ST. GEORGE IS VERY INCORRECT

Gareth Young writes: Following is an article that appeared in my home town paper, Kenilworth, Warwickshire:

Rugby Town Council has banned the flag of St George at its town hall — in case it is seen as racist.

Rugby Borough Council members vetoed a move to fly the flag every day amid fears it could be linked with the British National Party. Councillors were happy to fly the Union Jack on significant dates and the English standard — a red cross on a white background — on St George’s Day. But some felt flying the flag all the time could send out “wrong messages”.

Alan Webb, leader of the Warwickshire council’s Labour group, said the authority was following Government protocol. He added: “It’s inappropriate to fly flags apart from on flag days, otherwise you devalue them.”

But councillors were accused of “missing the point” yesterday. Sir Robin Williams of the Campaign for an Independent Britain called it “political correctness gone mad.” He said: “Immigrants are proud to be here.”

The Campaign for Racial Equality advised against the banning of any flag. A Royal British Legion spokesman added: “It will certainly upset a good many members of the community.”

Angry Tory councillor David Wright was disgusted that the proposal had been rejected by 27 votes to 16. He vowed to lodge another motion urging the council to reconsider. He said: “This has nothing to do with race. We are in the centre of England and wanted to restore a bit of pride.” Mr Wright said he had yet to meet a single member of the public of any race who opposed the defeated plans.


No comments: