Harborough's MP has called for the installation of more permanent flagpoles across the district so that the Union Flag and St George’s flag "can be flown in a dignified and visible way".

Neil O'Brien has written to all local district and borough councils encouraging them to identify prominent sites for flagpoles.

His call follows a grassroots campaign to raise flags on lampposts to show national pride, which has led to flags appearing across the county and nationwide. While many have welcomed this as a positive step, others have criticised right wing movements for 'hi-jacking' the idea and 'using it to spread fear and cause division'.

Mr O’Brien says that creating permanent, well-placed flagpoles will "not only provide a better way to display the flag, but also help younger generations reconnect with Britain’s history".

Harborough's MP Neil O'Brien says more permanent flagpoles should be installed across the district.

placeholder image — Harborough's MP Neil O'Brien says more permanent flagpoles should be installed across the district.

Mr O'Brien said: "Over the summer it’s been great to see people putting up flags around the community, but what we really need are proper permanent flagpoles.

"There are some excellent sites – for example, as you drive into Market Harborough from the north or south, or as you come up into Oadby and Wigston. With permanent flagpoles, these could be striking gateways to our towns and villages.

“Too much of our history is in danger of being forgotten. Shockingly, two in three people under 40 don’t know what the Battle of Britain was. That is tragic. Flying the flag is a simple but powerful way of restoring pride, uniting the country, and honouring those who came before us."

Liz Elliott, deputy chief executive at Harborough District Council, said: “The council’s flag flying policy, available on our website, confirms that we fly the Union Flag every day on our flagpoles, and follow guidance issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government regarding the flying of flags on other days. It also outlines our policy regarding the flying of other special flags.

“We have two flagpoles; one is at our offices at The Symington Building, and the other is in the Memorial Gardens in Market Harborough. There are no future plans to have flagpoles at other sites in the district.”