An opposition leader on Kirklees Council has urged its leadership team to “review” its latest policy on which flags can be flown on public buildings.
The Reform UK-led authority approved a move that meant only a limited range 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 Sarah Wood said the move was to “set out a clear approach across Kirklees”.
In a letter to Wood, councillor Anthony Smith, leader of the Liberal Democrats, said Kirklees had “a proud civic tradition of inclusion, mutual respect, and celebrating the diverse communities that make up our towns and villages”.
Smith said: “This isn’t just about procedure; it is about our identity as an inclusive district.
“In previous years, Kirklees has proudly flown the RAF Ensign to remember our armed forces, the 999 Day flag to support frontline emergency workers, the Windrush flag to honour our African Caribbean community and the Pride flag to celebrate Huddersfield’s pivotal historic role in hosting the first-ever national Pride march back in 1981.
“Our local Irish community has also proudly seen the Irish Tricolour and St Patrick’s Saltire raised above Huddersfield Town Hall.
“Members of that community have contacted me in utter disbelief and hurt that this civic tradition is being cast aside without a single word of consultation.”
