Council to fly Union Flag all year round

The Union Flag will now be flown permanently at The Laverton, the home of Westbury Town Council.

Councillors approved the decision at a Full Council meeting on Monday 7th September following a proposal from Cllr Mark Harper, who said it would “provide a clear civic statement of national identity and demonstrate the town council’s pride in serving its community as part of the United Kingdom”.

Cllr Harper also proposed flying the England flag during major national and international sporting events where England is participating, which sparked debate among councillors.

Cllr Gordon King suggested the proposal was a reaction to protests and social media comments and said he would not support either flag being flown.

Cllr Jane Russ questioned how major events would be determined. She said, “Who draws the line? Do we celebrate figure skating and dance if they get into a championship position? Does the rest of Westbury know about that? I’m just saying there are maybe things we need to consider.”

Cllr Mike Sutton also opposed the permanent flying of the flags and raised concerns about the cost of installing a new flagpole to accommodate the new policy if adopted.

Members were advised that a new flagpole would cost up to £6,000, including purchase, planning and installation.

“My personal view is surely we can spend £6,000 better,” said Cllr Sutton. “I’d rather give it to a food bank than to two bits of material.”

Councillors voted against flying the England flag on special sporting occasions, but the council will support these events on social media.

Councillors also voted against the purchase of a new flagpole, with town clerk Deborah Urch clarifying that there will still be space on the three flagpoles in the town centre for flags to be flown for other causes.

Pictured: The Laverton