UK Controversy Over Union Flag Prompts Apology from Scottish Council

[Social Media]

 

Controversy Over Union Flag Prompts Apology from Scottish Council

 

A Scottish council has issued a formal apology following a controversial letter sent by a headteacher that appeared to suggest the Union Flag could be considered "potentially offensive or sectarian". The issue arose after an image of the national flag was used during a P7 leavers' event at Cross Arthurlie Primary School in Barrhead, East Renfrewshire.

 

The headteacher, Fiona MacDonald, addressed parents and carers in a letter following the event, explaining that the use of a Union Flag image featuring staff portraits had caused “some upset at the beginning of the evening.” She emphasised that the school aims to promote “inclusion and acceptance” and works to avoid “potentially offensive or sectarian messaging.”

 

“Although we recognise this was not the intent,” MacDonald wrote, “we are concerned that others within or beyond the school community may consider that this is something we would encourage.” She stated that she had spoken with pupils about the importance of seeking permission before using images, as well as the broader implications of symbols such as flags. The conversation with pupils also touched on “the symbolism and association of flags and symbols to different groups of people” and how these associations might conflict with the school’s core values of “respect and kindness.”

 

She concluded her letter by saying, “I hope this helps everyone understand where mistakes have been made and we can move on enjoying the rest of the end of term celebrations.”

 

The letter quickly drew criticism, particularly from political figures who saw it as an unnecessary politicisation of a national symbol. Scottish Conservative MSP Russell Findlay condemned the message, stating: “For a school to tell parents that our country’s flag is ‘offensive or sectarian’ is ludicrous and embarrassing.”

 

His colleague Jackson Carlaw, MSP for Eastwood, also expressed outrage on social media platform X, writing: “Let me be clear – to equate the Union Flag with sectarianism is totally unacceptable and deeply offensive to people both locally and across Scotland.” He continued, “Our national flag is not up for debate – it is a symbol of our tradition, unity as a nation and hope for so many,” and demanded an apology from the council.

 

In response to the growing backlash, East Renfrewshire Council released a statement clarifying the school’s intentions. “It was not the school’s intention to imply the Union Flag is sectarian and both the headteacher and the council apologises for any offence and upset that has been caused to pupils, parents and carers and the wider community.”

 

The council reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusive educational environments: “All educational establishments in East Renfrewshire should be spaces that are focused on learning, unity, and pride in a diverse British society. We expect our schools to foster an ethos of respect for diverse perspectives and national identity.”

 

The incident has highlighted ongoing sensitivities around national symbols in Scotland and the balancing act schools must perform in promoting inclusivity while also acknowledging national identity.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Sky News  2025-06-18

 

 

[JonnyF]

Pathetic.

 

She probably wants it replaced with the Pride flag.

 

Or perhaps the Palestinian one?

 

Pearl clutching Liberal.