The New Statesman: politics and culture Has the English flag been co-opted by the far-right? | Politics with Anoosh Chakelian
Aug 29, 2025
Anoosh Chakelian speaks with Harry Clarke-Ezzidio, who covered the Raise the Colours initiative, and George Eaton, senior politics editor. They dive into the English flag's appropriation by far-right groups and the absence of a unifying English government narrative. Discussions explore the complex symbolism of the St George's Cross in current political contexts, from asylum protests to cultural identity. They also tackle the influence of populism on immigration policies and the implications for Scotland and England's political relationship.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Birmingham Flag-Raising Observations
- Harry visited Birmingham suburbs where many St George's Crosses and Union Jacks were displayed along major roads.
- Locals gave mixed explanations, from VJ Day commemoration to community pride, showing unclear motives behind the flag-raising.
Flag Displays Carry Political Weight
- The St George's Cross has become contested because far-right agitators used it in past unrest, which complicates benign displays.
- That contested history means simple flag-raising can be read as political or exclusionary in diverse cities like Birmingham.
Identity Vacuum Fuels Flag Politics
- A perceived vacuum on English identity politics helps populist movements claim the St George's Cross as a rallying symbol.
- Weak framing from UK-wide parties on English nationhood lets local flag politics be filled by defensive, cultural narratives.