HC Deb 13 November 1989 vol 160 cc18-9
80. Mr. Baldry

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he has any responsibility for heraldry in the duchy.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

I have no responsibility for heraldry.

Mr. Baldry

That is a great pity, because a bunch of people are wandering around the country masquerading under the red rose of Lancashire and of St. George. Should not that scandalous state of affairs be reported to the College of Arms, which could then devise a legitimate heraldic device for the group in question—a windbag rampant, perhaps?

Mr. Baker

Many people in Lancashire bitterly resent the fact that the symbol of Lancashire, the red rose, has been hijacked by the Labour party. The red rose of Lancashire is a symbol of unity, not of division, so its use in that, way is a complete charade because the Labour party has not changed its policies. Its symbol remains the red flag, as was shown by the fact that 10 days ago Labour Members stood up in the Chamber and sang it.

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