West Midlands Police has stated it will provide support to councils if they choose to remove flags erected on public property. Acting Chief Constable Scott Green confirmed that officers would attend when local authorities lawfully remove flags attached to street furniture.
Polarised debate over flags
Mr Green described the debate surrounding flags as polarised, but emphasised that it is ultimately a matter for individual communities. He made the remarks while appearing on the Ed James show on BBC Radio WM, where he fielded questions from the public about his role.
Flags displayed across Birmingham and the wider region have sparked strong reactions. Supporters claim they are expressing patriotism and celebrating the country, while opponents argue the displays are politically motivated and designed to stir division.
Recent incident in Stirchley
Last month, locals in Stirchley clashed with members of the Raise the Colours group who were putting up flags in the area. A man in his 30s suffered leg injuries after being struck by a van on Mayfield Road, off Pershore Road, shortly after 10pm on Thursday, May 14. He was taken to hospital for treatment.
A 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of wounding in connection with the crash and has been bailed pending further enquiries. A second man, aged 52, was also later arrested in relation to the incident.
Police position on flags
When asked on the radio show about increased tensions over flags and whether he supported them, Mr Green responded: "Flags across communities is a really polarised debate. I try not to have a view on it, I think it's a matter for individual communities."
He explained that most flags displayed on street furniture belong to local authorities, and it is their decision, in partnership with communities, whether to keep or remove them. He added: "My offer to local authority colleagues is where you go to take flags down, the police will attend to support you in carrying out your lawful action."
Regarding flags on private houses, Mr Green stated: "It's a matter for the individual. No view on that at all providing they are lawful."
