Reform UK-led council fails to attract sponsors for union flag scheme

Nottinghamshire County Council, which came under the control of Nigel Farage's Reform UK party in last May's elections, approved a £75,000 project to attach union flags to around 180 lampposts and other sites. The council report justified the cost as a way to “enhance civic pride” and stated that the national flag represents unity and collective values.

In December, Reform MP Lee Anderson, whose Ashfield constituency lies in the county, posted a video on social media alongside council leader Mick Barton and cabinet member James Walker-Gurley. Anderson said the scheme had cost £75,000 but would not burden taxpayers because local businesses would sponsor the flags, covering fitting and maintenance. He even claimed the council would make a profit.

However, a council spokesperson confirmed seven months later that no sponsors had been found, and the council is covering the full cost. The Reform-led administration has also faced other controversies, including a ban on speaking to journalists from the area's largest local newspaper, which was lifted only after a threat of legal action.

Reform councils have a policy of flying only the union flag, St George's flag, and county or local emblems, meaning they no longer display Ukrainian flags. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed regret over this decision in June, warning that small mistakes can damage big friendships.

Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper commented, “Turns out 30p Lee is more like £75k Lee when it comes to spending taxpayers’ money.” Anderson was contacted for comment but did not respond.