Council refuses to fly Ukrainian flag for one day
Debate over council flag policy highlights divisions on symbolic gestures
North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) has rejected calls from the Conservative opposition to make a one-day exception to its flag policy to fly Ukraine’s flag next month. This would have marked Ukraine's Independence Day on 24th August and symbolised solidarity with its people amidst the ongoing war.
The council, led by the Reform UK administration, established a flag policy in June 2025 stipulating that only the country’s national flags, Armed Forces Day, and VJ Day flags are to be flown.
Cllr Helen Harrison, leader of the North Northants Conservatives, pushed for the motion, citing the lengthy war in Ukraine which has now persisted for longer than the First World War.
“Their blood and their sacrifice is keeping us safe right across Europe, the UK and here in North Northamptonshire,” Harrison said.
Support also came from Green party leader, Cllr Emily Fedorowycz, who shared her personal connection to Ukraine:
“Flying the Ukrainian flag will not end the war, but it will send a simple and powerful message that we have not forgotten the people of Ukraine,” Fedorowycz said.
However, Reform UK’s cabinet member for regulatory services, Cllr Kirk Harrison, opposed the motion due to the council’s firm policy:
“A little over a year ago, this council adopted a flag policy. We should not depart from policy for political requests.”
Labour councillor William Colquhoun criticised the rigidity of the policy, advocating for flexibility:
“Show a bit of flexibility and a bit of acceptance of other people within your flag policy,” he said.
The motion faced contention, with arguments centered around consistency versus symbolic gestures. Despite expressing solidarity with Ukraine, Cllrs Kirk Harrison and Chris Munday reiterated the importance of a consistent policy without exceptions.
Ultimately, the motion was refused in a recorded vote, with 32 votes against, 21 in support, and four abstentions.