LGBTQ+ Pride flags that had been put up at approximately 30 locations throughout Calderdale are being taken down.
The ruling Reform UK administration at Calderdale Council has confirmed the flags are being removed, following criticism from Labour members who state these were funded through a community fundraising effort that brought in £8,500 and installed by a private company operating under a council agreement.
However, the council’s Leader, Councillor Dan Sutherland, has stated the flags are being removed in accordance with regulations established by the UK Government.
Removal described as politically motivated
In a statement on Facebook, Calderdale Labour expressed condemnation of the Reform administration’s choice to mandate the removal of Pride and Progress flags from throughout the borough.
According to Labour, these flags were not purchased using public funds.
They were financed through public donations and installed by a business operating under contract with Calderdale Council.
Labour claims Reform decided to remove them purely for political purposes.
Installation deemed unlawful
Councillor Sutherland, representing Illingworth and Mixenden for Reform UK, disputed this characterisation.
Through the council’s social media channels, he stated that the council had ordered the removal of structures that had been erected on council land without proper authorisation.
He added that this action had been carried out at zero expense to residents.
Councillor Sutherland further explained that placing Pride Progress flags without obtaining the necessary permission constitutes a breach of regulations.
He confirmed this falls under guidelines laid down by the UK Government.
Calderdale Council is dedicated to upholding legal standards and will take firm action against individuals who choose to operate outside the law.
He emphasised that this dedication to legal compliance encompasses condemning homophobic conduct.
Calderdale is a welcoming area where individuals can express themselves freely and live without experiencing discrimination.
The council remains steadfast in opposing those who promote hatred or attempt to create discord within communities through provocative actions.
Installation incurred no public expense
The Labour group’s leader on Calderdale Council, Councillor Adam Wilkinson from Sowerby Bridge, offered a contrary view and suggested the decision was politically motivated.
According to Councillor Wilkinson, this choice reveals where Reform’s priorities lie.
These flags did not cost Calderdale residents anything, whereas their removal will.
He stated that rather than addressing the genuine issues affecting the borough, one of the initial actions of this incoming Reform administration has been to engage in a polarising cultural conflict.
Councillor Wilkinson indicated this created an unwelcoming impression for LGBTQ+ residents and their loved ones.
He called upon the Reform administration to reverse this choice and concentrate instead on matters that truly matter to Calderdale residents.