If you saw my local MP walking down the street, you could make the assumption that he is “from other parts”. You would, however, be wrong. Wikipedia tells me that he was born in Luton and his academic education was all at UK universities. In other words, he has just as much claim to be a native British citizen as me or King Charles.

Jeevun Sandher has recently sent out his latest email news letter, in which he notes that he has written to the leader of the local (Reform-led) council asking for the Union and St George flags that have recently been clandestinely fixed to local lamp posts to be taken down. He makes the twin points that they are becoming weather worn so will eventually become either litter or an active hazard to traffic and that they are very often interpreted as a message meaning “foreigners” (and people who look like foreigners) out.

It will be interesting to see how the council respond. Flag supports often claim that they are simply a symbol of national pride but that is at best naieve, given the context of what has led to the recent bout of flag-waving. That has been clearly centered in a fear of immigration and the rhetoric of those who are willing to exploit such fears for personal power rather than the well-being of those in need. In addition, the unauthorised erection of the flags is not the work of law-abiding and law-respecting citizens. I would be surprised if many of them can be backed by documented permission to fix material to the street furniture. That isn’t law and order but anarchy – precisely the kind of attitude that most flag-fans would claim to be afraid of.

There are appropriate times and places to use various flags but those who like to show the red and white of St George have a few things they should consider. Would be willing to give support to the family of the original George (most likely an early 4th century Christian martyr of east Mediterranean origin)? In other words, a typical profile of many modern refugees and asylum seekers. Also, what they really think about the Jesus, who that blood red cross and pure white ground represent and to whom we have every reason to believe St George gave his unrelenting allegiance?