Bishops call for flags to mean unity

CHURCH of England bishops have voiced their rejection of “the use of Christian symbols” by people trying to intimidate others, in the face of community anxiety about the flying of St George's and Union flags.

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St George's and Union flags hanging from lamp posts in Birmingham in September last year

(JACOB KING/PA)

The widespread flying of such flags, following an online campaign named Operation Raise The Colours last year, became contentious, and several local authorities removed them from public infrastructure.

Some politicians decried the removals of national flags, while others claimed the increased number being flown was a result of xenophobia or racism.