Starmer condemns 'divisive' use of displays

The Prime Minister has said he is “very encouraging” of people flying national flags, but said they can be devalued when flown “purely for divisive purposes”.

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The widespread flying of Union and St George’s Cross flags, following an online campaign called Operation Raise the Colours, has become contentious and several local authorities have removed them from public infrastructure.

Some politicians have decried their removal, while others claim the increased number of flags is a result of xenophobia or racism.

Asked on Monday whether people putting up the Union and St George’s Cross flags in the wake of asylum hotel protests could be considered racist, Sir Keir Starmer told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I am supporter of flags.”

He added: “I am the leader of the Labour Party who put the Union Jack on our Labour Party membership cards. I always sit in front of the Union Jack. I've been doing it for years, and it attracted a lot of comment when I started doing it.”