HC Deb 13 May 1993 vol 224 cc553-4W
Mr. Trimble

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the origin and current status of the Northern Ireland flag.

Sir Patrick Mayhew

In 1953 the former Government of Northern Ireland gave their assent to the flying in certain circumstances of their own flag known as the "Ulster Banner". This consists of a St. George's cross with a crowned six-pointed star and a red hand at the centre. This was not intended to be a replacement or alternative to the Union flag as the official flag of Northern Ireland. Since the dissolution of the Government of Northern Ireland, this flag has had no official status.

Mr. Trimble

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what flag or flags are used by Her Majesty's Government to represent Northern Ireland.

Sir Patrick Mayhew

The official flag of Northern Ireland is the Union flag.