West Midlands Police have released an official statement outlining their specific position regarding the ongoing removal of flags from public lampposts in the Moseley area of Birmingham. This clarification comes after a series of British flags were erected without permission earlier this week, prompting local councillors to confirm that action would be taken to have them taken down.
Council and Police Collaboration Confirmed
Councillor Izzy Knowles had previously stated that both the local authority and the police were coordinating efforts to facilitate the removal of the flags, which appeared on lamp posts in Moseley Village on Wednesday evening. The police have now formally reiterated that the primary responsibility for physically removing the flags lies with Birmingham City Council or the relevant highways agency, not with the police force itself.
A Supportive Police Presence
Assistant Chief Constable Andy Parsons provided a detailed explanation of the police's role in the operation. He emphasised that while the local authority handles the actual removal, West Midlands Police will provide a visible presence at the scene. This presence is intended to ensure council workers can carry out their duties safely, without facing incidents of intimidation, breach of the peace, or any other form of disruption.
"The decision on the removal of flags from public street furniture is a matter for the local authority or relevant highways agency," stated ACC Parsons. "Our role is to ensure they are able to carry out their work without incident, intimidation or breach of the peace. West Midlands Police are not removing any flags; this is the responsibility of the local authority."
Commitment to Community Cohesion
In their statement, the police force also underscored their broader commitment to maintaining community harmony. ACC Parsons added that the force is working constructively with local authorities, always aiming to police without fear or favour, and is dedicated to supporting community cohesion throughout the process. The situation in Moseley has highlighted the procedural distinctions between local authority responsibilities and police support functions in managing public space issues.
