ncil workers have been spotted tearing down England flags ahead of the Three Lions World Cup semi-final for ‘fire safety’ reasons.
A Ring doorbell cam captured the footage of St George’s crosses being removed from a balcony by two council workers.
The clip has left the public divided, with the council also forced to explain its actions.
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The video was taken on a social housing block where the two men had been instructed to remove them due to ‘fire safety’ concerns.
The video was taken on 14 Jul around 9:30am, as reported by Need To Know.
The workers were representing Portsmouth council, who had instructed the flags to be removed.
Reform councillor George Madgwick shared the footage online, slamming the decision.
He stated: “Portsmouth Council are removing England Flags safely hung over residents’ balconies ahead of the England semi-final World Cup game.
“What is wrong with these councils?
“Portsmouth Council said they have taken English Flags down today on concrete housing terrace blocks for ‘Fire Safety’.
“The day before the Semi-Final.
“Better not show them what Kirby Estate in London looks like currently, then.”
The footage left the nation divided, with members of the public voicing their concerns on the matter.
One person said: “Have no money for essential services but can pay two people to waste time and remove football flags.”
Another viewer wrote: “You have to ask why? It is England and that is the flag – people should be proud.”
One other person said: “It’s most likely a fire safety thing or clause in the leaseholder agreement.
“Mine states I can’t affix anything to the exterior of the balcony or building.”
Another commenter stated: “Give a jobsworth a little power and they find new ways to abuse it.”
One person added: “Nothing to do with anti-England, it’s about tenancy agreements and fire hazards, read your tenancy agreements.”
One viewer wrote: “England are in the semi-final of the World Cup. I’ve seen one car and one house with flags, I remember the 90s, flags and parties everywhere, so sad to see.”
The Portsmouth council has defended the removal of the flags.
A Portsmouth City Council spokesperson said: “We understand residents want to show their support for England, and we’re pleased to see the community getting behind the team.
“However, our fire safety policy, reinforced by Hampshire Fire & Rescue and the Fire Safety Act, requires communal balconies on our buildings to be kept clear of anything that could catch fire, spread fire, or block safe access.
“This applies to all items placed on balconies, including flags and banners.
“We have consulted with Hampshire Fire & Rescue, and they agree with our approach to keeping communal balconies clear in the interests of fire safety.
“Residents are welcome to display flags inside their homes, such as in a window, where they can still show their support while helping to keep everyone safe.”
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