HC Deb 04 May 1977 vol 931 cc199-200W
Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list the official flags which may be flown on Government buildings in the United Kingdom, together with any conditions that may apply in each instance.

Mr. Marks

As follows:

  1. (1) The Union Flag—except when stated below, this is flown on Government buildings on days nationally appointed for flag flying.
  2. (2) The Lion Rampant—this is flown alone on the Scottish Office in London on all days nationally appointed for flag flying.
  3. (3) The Saltire(also called St. Andrew's Cross)—this may be flown with the Union Flag on Government buildings in Scotland on all days appointed for national flag flying and on St. Andrew's Day. The Saltire is also flown over the Scottish Office in London on St. Andrew's Day in place of the Lion Rampant.
  4. (4) The Red Dragon of Wales—this may be flown with the Union Flag on Government buildings in Wales and on the London Headquarters of the Welsh Office on all days nationally appointed for flag flying and on St. David's Day.
  5. (5) The Royal Standard—except in the Greater London area, the Royal Standard is usually flown on any building the Sovereign may visit, while the Sovereign is within the building.
  6. (6) The Customs Flag—this is flown every day on Customs Houses except on days actually appointed for flag flying, when it is replaced by the Union Flag.
  7. (7) The Coastguard Flag—this is flown on Coastguard stations when the station is manned and able to receive messages except on nationally appointed flag flying days when it is replaced by the Union Flag.
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  8. (8) Departmental Flags—these may be flown with the Union Flag on all days nationally appointed for flag flying provided (a) the Sovereign has approved their use and (b) they are registered with the College of Arms.