Stockport Removes Flags Amid Racial Concerns

0:00On March 19, England flags and union jacks are coming down from Lamposte and parts of Stockport near Greater Manchester. These displays started last year as part of a nationwide push called Operation Raise the Colors, Mentos Show National Pride. Now spots like Higher Hill Gate near the town center look bare where flags once hung. The local council's rules haven't changed since then. Flags can stay up on public Lamposte unless they create safety issues or carry added slogans. Officials say they've only taken down a handful recently to follow that policy. Residents and leaders have mixed feelings. Some see the flags as harmless patriotism, but others worry they stir up community divides. Reports of racial incidents rose after they went up, according to the areas housing group, prompting calls from counselors to remove them for good. A few fed up locals even took matters into their own hands after a public meeting, pulling flags down themselves. Labor counselors argued the displays fuel prejudice and hurt the town's tolerant vibe.

1:01Council leader Mark Roberts stands firm, noting the national flag flies proudly at town hall for everyone. He urges residents to hang flags at home, instead since public spots aren't ideal and worn ones will need clearing eventually.