𝓤𝓷𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓝𝓮𝔀𝓼

Nigel Farage has reignited a fierce political row after vowing to ban foreign flags from flying above public buildings if Reform UK takes power. Now Express.co.uk readers are now being asked whether councils and other public bodies should only be allowed to fly British flags — or whether foreign flags should remain as symbols of solidarity and international support.

The debate intensified after Reform councillors in Essex removed the Ukrainian flag from County Council headquarters, prompting criticism from James Cleverly.

The former Home Secretary wrote on X: “One of the first decisions made by Essex Reform was to remove the Ukrainian flag from County Council HQ. Let that sink in.”

Should foreign flags be banned from flying over public buildings? Vote in our poll and join the debate in the comments.

Mr Farage hit back by declaring: “Under Reform there will be no foreign flags flown above our public buildings.”

Reform has already introduced flag restrictions in councils it controls, limiting displays to the Union Jack, the St George’s Cross and county flags.

Party chairman Zia Yusuf previously said no other flags should be permitted on council flagpoles, balconies or inside council chambers.

Supporters say the policy promotes national pride, British identity and political neutrality in public institutions.

Reform argues public buildings should represent the UK rather than overseas causes or international politics.

Critics, however, accuse the party of undermining solidarity with allies such as Ukraine following Russia’s invasion. Some opponents have suggested the policy risks sending the wrong message internationally.

The issue has become part of a wider national debate over patriotism, sovereignty and what symbols should appear on taxpayer-funded buildings.

With Reform continuing to rise in the polls and expand its local government influence, the controversy around flags is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.