Reform UK Councillor Accuses Plaid of “Undermining Welsh Identity”

Carmarthenshire County Council has begun removing Welsh flags that had been hung by activists on lampposts, road signs, and other public spaces across the county as part of the “Raising the Colours” protest.

The campaign, which saw flags displayed prominently across Carmarthenshire, was intended to symbolise both national pride, but in many instances was linked to the opposition of immigration and asylum policies in both Wales and the wider United Kingdom. A major driving force for the protest in Wales was the Welsh Government’s “Nation of Sanctuary” policy.

The council, currently run by Plaid Cymru, has faced criticism for the decision, with opponents arguing that the removal undermines a powerful symbol of Welsh identity and pride.

On social media, evidence of the Council removing the flags has been posted. The post shows that lampposts that were previously adorned with flags of Wales as part of “Operation Raise the Colours” have now had the flags removed by the Plaid-run local authority.

Reform call out CCC’s Actions

In response, Reform UK Carmarthenshire County Councillor Michelle Beer has called out the “hypocrisy” of Plaid Cymru, pointing out that the “so-called ‘Party of Wales’… is actively undermining the symbols that bind us as a nation”.

This follows a recent announcement by all 12 Reform UK-controlled councils in England committing that they will not be removing Union and St George’s Cross flags from lampposts.

Reform UK Carmarthenshire County Councillor Michelle Beer said:

“It is with deep disappointment that we witness the Plaid Cymru-led council’s decision to remove Welsh flags from lampposts across our county.

“The Welsh flag, a proud symbol of our heritage and identity, has long served as a unifying emblem for the people of Wales, fostering togetherness and national pride. Yet, Plaid Cymru – the so-called ‘Party of Wales’ – has chosen to strip this powerful symbol from our streets.

“This move is not only misguided but demonstrates hypocrisy. Plaid Cymru, a party that claims to champion Welsh identity and culture, is actively undermining the symbols that bind us as a nation. Their decision does not reflect the spirit of unity our nation holds dear.”

Fact-Checking

As a news provider, Carmarthenshire News Online is dedicated to ensuring that our readers have all the facts in-front of them.

We understand that Carmarthenshire County Council has not issued a formal response to “Operation Raise the Colours,” a movement involving the public display of flags.

However, like other local authorities, they are bound by policies that require the removal of flags placed on public highways or street furniture to ensure public safety and adhere to existing regulations, regardless of the flag’s symbolism.

The council’s position – in line with Council policies – is that flags are removed based on public safety and regulations, not the specific type of flag being flown.

It is important to note that homeowners and private property owners are free to fly flags on their own land. Local councils have no legal authority to remove flags from private property, and displays on gardens, driveways, or private buildings are entirely within the rights of the property owner.

The rules restricting flag displays apply only to public highways, street furniture, and other council-managed spaces, meaning personal displays remain fully protected.