§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what reasons underlie his policy of modifying regulations to allow the European flag to be flown without planning permission; what representations he has received on this issue; how many locations he expects will be affected; what manner of appeal locally will be possible; and if he will make a statement. [134184]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe UK is a member of the European Union. Our proposal would remove a layer of bureaucracy and make it easier for anyone who wants to fly the European Union flag to do so from any location where there is a flagstaff. Any national flags may already be flown without planning consent. The flying of the European Union flag would not be subject to planning restrictions therefore there would be no right of appeal. I have received four representations about this proposal, three from hon. Members and one from a member of the public.