The leader of the Liberal Democrats has spoken out about Operation Raise the Colours and a viral photo of MPs waving Union flags at his party’s conference.
The leader of the Liberal Democrats has addressed Operation Raise the Colours and a viral image of MPs waving Union flags at the party conference.
Operation Raise the Colours has seen activists displaying UK and England flags at homes and painting St George's crosses on pedestrian crossings. This move has sparked mixed reactions; while some celebrate it as a show of patriotism, others express concern that it is linked to far-right politics.
At the recent Lib Dem conference in Bournemouth, MPs Joshua Reynolds (Maidenhead) and Clive Jones (Wokingham) were photographed waving the Union flag.
When asked if the party was trying to align with a right-wing movement, Sir Ed Davey stated, “We’ve been waving the flag for many years. Lib Dem values embrace decency and respect for the rule of law, classic British values that figures like Nigel Farage and Tommy Robinson do not represent.”
He emphasised the need for parties like the Lib Dems to represent the silent majority who reject extremism.
Clive Jones also defended the party's stance, saying, “Why shouldn’t we wave the Union Jack? I’ve been doing it for years. I’m proud of our flag and believe we have every right to celebrate it.”
Sir Ed participated in a raft-making experience at Dinton Pastures Activity Centre on Friday, October 17, alongside Mr Jones and councillor Katrin Harding.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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