A change to the policy on which flags can be flown from town halls in Reform UK-controlled Kirklees has been derided as a “waste of time” by an opposition councillor.
On Wednesday, the authority approved a move that meant a limited number of designs could be flown. The new policy means the Pride flag, often considered a symbol of LGBTQ+ visibility, will not be on any town hall flagpoles.
Council leader, Reform’s Sarah Wood said the policy aimed to “set out a clear approach across Kirklees”, while focusing on the “symbols that unite us all”.
However, Andrew Cooper, leader of the Green Party opposition, said the move was a “divisive and unnecessary diversion”.
The new policy means that “only the Union Flag, Flag of St George, Civic Flag and specific flags associated with ‘named days’ set out in the policy will be permitted”.
The “named days” are:
“With so many problems facing the people of Kirklees, it is disappointing that the first thing Reform decided to do is create division when there are so many other issues that need their attention,” Cooper said.
