Concerns have emerged within the Labour Party over the strategy to incorporate the Union flag into campaign materials, revealing a rift among party members. The party, under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer, has been showcasing the flag prominently in its electoral campaign to emphasize patriotic values, a move seen as an attempt to signal a shift from the Jeremy Corbyn era.

This decision, however, has sparked significant unease among some Labour MPs, councillors, and activists, particularly those representing areas with sizeable ethnic minority populations. Critics argue that the prominent display of the Union flag might alienate voters in constituencies with large Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) groups, as well as in university towns and constituencies perceived as heavily BAME. They highlight concerns over negative associations with the far-right among ethnic minority communities and caution against a one-size-fits-all approach to the party’s campaign branding.

The debate over the flag’s usage has led to discontent within the party, with reports of activists being hesitant to distribute campaign leaflets adorned with Union Jacks. Some MPs have raised objections to the strategy, calling for a more tailored approach that would not risk alienating certain voter segments.

Criticism from outside the Labour Party has also surfaced, with figures like Reform UK’s deputy leader, Ben Habib, accusing Labour of “hijacking and breaking” the nation through its use of the Union flag. Meanwhile, Labour’s National Executive Committee member, Abdi Duale, has defended the approach, advocating for a patriotically progressive stance that celebrates the nation’s diversity.

The controversy surfaces as Labour navigates the complexities of maintaining brand consistency across its general election campaign, while also striving to appeal to a broad voter base. The use of national symbols in the campaign has thus become a topic of internal scrutiny as the party aims to balance patriotism with inclusivity.