Palestine flag flying is a 'show of solidarity'

Paisley campaigners fight for unity on local buildings

- EDEL KENEALY

Claims that flying the Palestinian flag in Renfrewshire is nothing more than "gesture politics" has been dismissed by local campaigners who say the show of solidarity is more important than ever.

Paisley 4 Palestine-which last year successfully campaigned for the flag to be flown in civic spaces in Renfrew, Johnstone and Paisley - said it was disappointed in the decision to lower it in Houston Square and at Renfrew Town Hall.

It comes days after councillors agreed to a change in policy, flying the flag only from Renfrewshire Council headquarters where it is alternated with the Ukrainian flag every fortnight.

Councillor Neil Graham said the decision to lower the flag was a “victory for common sense”, arguing the decision to retain it in Paisley was nothing more than “gesture politics” and a “fringe issue”.