Solihull Council has categorically denied that it is preparing any legal action over the hanging of flags on lampposts, following claims by the Reform UK group on the authority that an injunction was being sought. The denial comes after Reform UK leader Councillor Samantha Gethen alleged that the council was planning to seek a High Court injunction to force the removal of Union Jack and St George's Cross flags, which have become a common sight across the borough and a major talking point.
Reform UK's Allegations and the Council's Response
In a press statement, Councillor Gethen said she had held discussions with Solihull Council's chief executive, Paul Johnson, over the authority's intentions. She alleged that the council had been preparing to seek a legal injunction to remove the flags, accusing the Conservatives of hypocrisy. “I've spoken to the chief executive directly about this and what's become clear is that the Conservatives are not being straight with residents,” she said. “They say they love the flag - but behind closed doors they're preparing to spend your money taking it down. Every penny spent on this injunction is a penny not spent on potholes, bins or local services. Residents deserve honesty, not hypocrisy.”
However, a spokesperson for Solihull Council swiftly denied any such preparations. The spokesperson stated: “Council officers have met with one council that has secured an injunction to understand their reasons for seeking an injunction. No politicians were involved in this meeting and no further action is being taken as a result of the meeting.” This statement directly contradicts the Reform UK leader's claims and clarifies that the council's engagement with the issue was purely informational.
Context of the Oxfordshire Injunction
The controversy arises in the wake of a recent High Court injunction granted to Oxfordshire County Council earlier this month. That injunction, secured against 'unknown people', prohibits the attachment of flags to highway structures or the painting of insignia on roads. The order was made by Mr Justice Dexter Dias, who noted the persistent nature of the activity. “The affixing of flags and the painting of insignia on the highway has continued consistently and persistently since August 2025. There is little prospect absent an injunction that it will stop,” he said.
Breaching the Oxfordshire injunction could lead to severe penalties, including seizures of assets, unlimited fines, or imprisonment. This legal precedent may have prompted Solihull Council to investigate the options available, but the council has made clear that no such action is currently being pursued.
Impact and Next Steps
The council's denial aims to reassure residents that no public funds are being allocated towards legal proceedings, contrary to the Reform UK group's claims. The statement emphasizes that the meeting with the other council was purely to gather information, with no political involvement and no subsequent action. This development clarifies the council's position and seeks to end speculation about potential legal moves.
For now, the flags in Solihull remain in place, and the council has indicated it will not take further steps regarding them. Residents can expect no immediate change in the situation, and the matter appears to be closed unless new information emerges.
