We stand against Reform's Pride Flag Ban

Norfolk Reform have banned pride flags from being flown at County Hall. We find this decision abhorrent.

Cllr Brian Watkins

Leader of the opposition at County Hall.

This ban on pride, and other flags being flown outside County Hall is incredibly disappointing to see as one of Reform's first acts in power. This is a cruel decision which does nothing to better the lives of anybody living in Norfolk.

As Liberal Democrats, we will always stand with the LGBTQ+ community and recognise the need for pride events and flags. This continuing need should be respected and supported by local authorities, not dismissed in this way.

As leader of the opposition on Norfolk County Council, I stand against this ban on pride flags.

Sean Bennett

Norwich South parliamentary spokesperson

Less than a month into administration, Reform are showing the people of Norfolk exactly what kind of politics they intend to bring to County Hall, choosing divisive identity politics over meaningful local governance. Their ban on the flying of pride flags at County Hall is not, as they claim, an act of inclusion. It is a targeted attempt to alienate the thousands of LGBT+ people in Norfolk.

Our city boasts one of the highest proportions of LGBTQ+ people in the country, and we Lib Dems will continue to fight for their recognition and representation for as long as it takes, just as we have done for decades.

Marlowe North

Diversity officer, Norwich Lib Dems

Reform have made their priorities clear.

While they could have used their first weeks in charge at County Hall to set into motion changes which would improve people's lives, they have instead forcibly removed a symbol of support, pride, and love: during pride month no less.

The need for politicians to stand beside, rather than against, queer people is stronger than ever, especially in the current climate of restrictions on the rights of trans people. We will not stand for this. The people of Norfolk deserve far better.