Oxfordshire County Council is taking legal action to stop the widespread hanging of flags on lampposts throughout the county, citing concerns of causing fear and division among the community.
The council has requested an injunction from the High Court to halt the flag-hanging efforts by the Raise the Colours campaigners, who have been displaying Union Jack and St George’s Cross flags along roads in the area over the past year.
This move follows previous warnings issued by the Liberal Democrat-led council to cease these activities, with multiple complaints from residents prompting the council’s actions. Council leader Tim Bearder emphasized that the injunction aims to protect residents, council staff, and uphold the county’s values.
The council highlighted safety risks and community distress caused by the unauthorized flag placements, pointing out incidents where individuals were injured or killed while putting up or removing flags. These incidents include a fatal fall in Bristol and a van accident in Birmingham.
The costs associated with the removal of these flags have exceeded £16,000, with reports of staff and residents facing abuse and intimidation during the process. The High Court has initiated proceedings, with a hearing scheduled at the Royal Courts of Justice to address the matter.
Mr. Bearder emphasized the council’s support for diverse communities and the right to display flags on private property, distinguishing between lawful expression and activities that jeopardize safety or intimidate residents.
In a separate development, Billy Allison, a founding member of Raise the Colours, has been charged with murder in connection with an incident in Lichfield. The incident resulted in the death of Matthew O’Gara, with another individual injured during the altercation.
