Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department has had discussions with relevant stakeholders on requiring the St. Georges' Cross to be flown from local authority buildings on St. George’s Day.

The Government attaches great importance to the history and traditions of this country and recognises that the flying of the St George’s Cross on St George’s Day will be an important act of celebration for many people. Individuals, local authorities and other organisations may fly national flags, including the St George’s Cross, whenever they wish, without the need for planning permission. It is for local authorities themselves to agree their own flag flying policies and I would welcome English councils marking St George’s Day by flying his historic flag.