‘Some try to hijack our flag’: Keir Starmer’s stern message to ‘fake patriots’ on St George’s Day
Marking St George’s Day, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered a strong message against what he termed “plastic patriotism”, accusing some groups of misusing the St George’s Cross to spread hate and division.In a statement, Starmer said that the flag belongs to the “vast majority” who believe in unity, respect and shared values, rather than those who weaponise identity for political or ideological gain.
‘Flag belongs to everyone, not extremists’
Starmer drew a sharp difference between inclusive patriotism and what he described as performative nationalism.“When people try to hijack our flag to spread hate, we should call it out for what it is,” he said, adding that such behaviour “corrodes the very bonds that tie us together.”He reiterated that the St George’s flag represents “decency over division” and “unity over hate”, positioning national pride as something rooted in contribution to society rather than exclusion.
‘Quiet patriotism’ vs ‘performative nationalism’
The Prime Minister highlighted what he called “quiet British patriotism” — everyday acts of service, solidarity and care — as the true expression of national identity.Citing examples of community work, volunteering and public service, Starmer argued that patriotism is best measured by actions that strengthen society.“The overwhelming majority chose to stand together, protect their communities and show the best of the country,” he said, referring to public responses during recent unrest.Starmer’s remarks come against the backdrop of social tensions and misinformation-driven disturbances in 2024, as well as what he described as a “volatile global environment”.He warned of two parallel threats: hostile external actors seeking to destabilise societies, and domestic forces exploiting divisions for their own ends.“Strong communities are the bedrock of national security,” he said, underlining the need for resilience at home.Central to the government’s approach is the multi-billion-pound “Pride in Place” initiative, aimed at revitalising high streets, parks and community infrastructure in hundreds of areas facing deprivation.Starmer framed the programme as a practical response to populism, focusing on rebuilding local pride and strengthening social cohesion.At a Downing Street reception earlier this week, the Prime Minister shared stories of individuals embodying what he described as English values — including a volunteer, a worker who removed racist graffiti, and a nurse who cared for his late brother.“These stories are bound by service, generosity and respect,” he said, adding that such acts reflect the true spirit of the nation.
Why St George’s Day is celebrated
Observed annually on April 23, St George’s Day honours Saint George, the patron saint of England, believed to have lived in the 3rd century under the Roman Empire.Revered as a soldier and martyr who refused to renounce his Christian faith, he was executed around 303 AD.The day, associated with the iconic red cross of the St George’s Cross, became prominent in England during the medieval period, especially after King Edward III declared St George the nation’s patron saint in the 14th century. Today, it remains a symbol of national pride, heritage and cultural identity.
