MP calls for more flagpoles 'to restore national pride'

HE HAS WRITTEN TO COUNCILS TO IDENTIFY SITES WHERE MORE FLAGS COULD GO UP

- By TESS RUSHIN

A LEICESTERSHIRE MP has called for more flagpoles to be installed across the county to celebrate national pride.

Neil O’Brien has made the call in the wake of increased numbers of St George and Union flags being attached to lampposts as part of several campaigns which claim to promote patriotism.

The initiative, known as Operation Raise the Colours, has sparked much discussion and is a highly divisive subject, but Mr O’Brien, the MP for Harborough, Oadby and Wigston, says a solution to install more permanent flagpoles across his constituency would address matters.

He said using designated flagpoles, rather than lampposts, would mean “the Union flag and St George's flag can be flown in a dignified and visible way.”

He said he has written to all Leicestershire councils “encouraging them to identify prominent sites for flagpoles” so the flags can be flown. He says the idea will “help younger generations reconnect with Britain’s history.”