Last month, St George’s crosses were painted on roundabouts here in Tiverton. I spoke to Devon Live about it, and I wanted to set out my views more fully here.
Let me be clear from the start: these acts of vandalism are not patriotism. They’re pathetic, not patriotic. Our taxes will foot the bill to scrub hate off the roundabouts we all drive on. I’ve asked the police what action will be taken to track down those responsible.
But this isn’t really about paint on a roundabout. It’s about what we mean when we talk about patriotism and pride in our country.
To me, being a true patriot means ensuring no child goes hungry. It means making sure no older person is left isolated and alone. It means building a society where no one falls through the safety nets that should protect us all.
If we want to “reclaim” Britain, it means shouting loudly that we’re tired of paying for water companies to dump sewage in our waterways. It means fighting for the NHS, not letting it be sold off bit by bit. It means taking real action on climate change to protect the country we claim to love.
True patriotism uplifts, includes and inspires. Racism and xenophobia divide, diminish and intimidate – and those who support it should be ashamed.
I know these flag displays have been appearing across the country as part of what’s been called “Operation Raise the Colours.” Organisers say it’s about pride. But at a time of heightened political and cultural tension, many people find these displays provocative rather than unifying.
My focus will always be on building strong, caring communities that look out for each other. That’s what real pride in our country looks like. Not paint on a roundabout that taxpayers have to clean up.