JANUARY 16, 2025 — The Norfolk village of Claxton, previously at the center of a debate over the Union Jack, is now facing criticism for flying the White Ensign, a flag traditionally reserved for Royal Navy warships and shore bases, according to the Eastern Daily Press.
In a recent attempt to standardize the display of national symbols, the Claxton Village Hall committee introduced a new flag policy. This policy outlines the flying of various flags on specific dates, including the Union Jack on Commonwealth Day, the King’s birthday, and Remembrance Sunday. Other flags, such as the St George’s Cross and the flags of Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, are to be flown on their respective saints’ days.
However, the decision to include the White Ensign, particularly on Trafalgar Day, has raised concerns among naval experts.
The White Ensign, featuring a red cross on a white background with the Union Jack in the upper left corner, is typically flown on Royal Navy ships and specific locations with naval connections.
While the flag has been permitted at places like All Saints’ Church in Burnham Thorpe, Lord Nelson’s birthplace, its display at Claxton Village Hall has prompted questions about the hall’s naval credentials.
Diana Keyzor of the Norwich Royal Naval Association criticized the move, highlighting the exclusive nature of the White Ensign.
“It is not considered appropriate to fly it on buildings unless they are Royal Navy establishments,” she stated, emphasizing the significance of the flag and the breach of naval etiquette.
This controversy follows a previous incident last August in Claxton involving the Union Jack, reports the BBC.
Last year, the village hall’s proposal to erect a six-meter flagpole sparked debates about the appropriateness of flying the national flag.
Some villagers feared the flag would convey divisive messages, while others defended it as a symbol of national pride.
The council ultimately approved the flagpole, despite mixed reactions.
Image: mattbuck, CC BY-SA 3.0
