In recent weeks, England has witnessed a widespread display of national flags, with over one million St. George's Cross and Union Jack flags raised across cities from Leeds to London, Birmingham to Bradford, Newcastle to Norwich, and Plymouth. This movement, referred to as "Operation Raise the Colours," involves communities reclaiming public spaces such as streets, lampposts, and roundabouts by painting and displaying these flags. The surge in flag sales has reached record levels, as reported by Amazon. Supporters describe the campaign as a patriotic assertion of national identity and a response to dissatisfaction with the current government, which some view as illegitimate and accused of dismantling Britain. However, critics and observers have expressed concerns that the flag displays may be linked to rising anti-immigration sentiment amid ongoing debates about migration in the UK. The situation has also led to local tensions, exemplified by incidents in Plymouth where painted flags on public roundabouts were repeatedly covered and repainted by city workers. The movement is unfolding against the backdrop of economic challenges in the UK, with some commentators comparing the current economic situation to the crisis of 1976.
NEW: BREAKING:💥 THE LIONS OF BRITAIN ROAR 💥 One million flags. One collapsing economy. One rising movement. I joined Natalie & Clayton Morris on Redacted to expose what’s really happening: 🇬🇧 The UK faces an economic collapse echoing 1976. 🇬🇧 Over a million flags raised in https://t.co/icPA3kOEM2
England flags spark pride and concern amid anti-immigration protests https://t.co/KqPphja65a https://t.co/KqPphja65a
Patriotisme ? Extrême droite ? Pourquoi des drapeaux anglais et britannique fleurissent dans plusieurs villes outre-Manche https://t.co/mmQvtKsa5t