The UK Government will tell councils they are no longer required to fly flags to mark Prince Andrew’s 60th birthday after he stepped back from public duties over his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The policy of flying Union flags on royal birthdays was being re-examined after councils were initially ordered to do so for Andrew, as is the custom.
Downing Street said the matter was being looked into after critics branded the celebration “crass and offensive”.
A UK government spokesman said: “The Department of Culture, Media and Sport will be advising councils that there is no requirement to fly flags on February 19 following the decision by the Duke of York to step back from public duties for the foreseeable future.”
EDDC cannot now hide behind an instruction and will have to make its own mind up on whether or not to fly the flag.
Owl will simply watch what happens. (Even if the flag is flown in HQ Honiton will anyone notice?)
East Devon Watch 