Transport for London has confirmed it will remove any Union Jack flags displayed without official permission across its transport network, following reports of contractors facing abuse while carrying out removals.
Policy on Unauthorised Displays
The transport authority stated that removing unofficial materials, including flags, posters, and graffiti, is a long-standing policy applied consistently across its infrastructure. This policy covers all unauthorised displays, not just flags, and is designed to ensure London's streets remain safe and welcoming for everyone.
In a statement addressing concerns raised by Liberal Democrat London Assembly member Hina Bokhari, TfL emphasised its commitment to this principle. The issue gained attention after numerous Union Jack and St George's Cross flags appeared on streets in recent months, sparking debates about patriotism and community relations.
Contractors Face Threats and Abuse
TfL revealed in a letter that contractors tasked with removing unauthorised flags have been subjected to threats and aggressive behaviour. The situation has become so serious that TfL is now working with the Metropolitan Police to identify those targeting workers and to establish safe procedures for removing unauthorised objects.
Similar incidents have been reported outside London, with councils in Hertfordshire and Maidenhead also requiring police assistance after their staff faced abuse while dealing with unauthorised flags.
Political Support for TfL's Stance
Hina Bokhari welcomed TfL's firm stance, stating that the aggression shown toward workers reveals the true intent behind some of these unauthorised displays. "Some argue that the unauthorised flags are about patriotism or celebration," she said, "but if TfL employees are met with threats by simply enforcing the rules, the 'flaggers' expose their true intent which is intimidation and division."
She distinguished between lawful displays at sporting events or civic buildings and unlawfully placed flags that spread fear, emphasising that no worker should face abuse for doing their job.
The controversy follows similar action by Tower Hamlets Council, which previously removed St George's flags from authority-owned infrastructure, including lampposts near the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf that has been used to house asylum seekers.
