Birmingham campaigners demand injunction against flag group amid allegations of intimidation
Activists argue authorities are failing to match the pace of Oxfordshire’s legal intervention, while officials maintain unauthorised flags will be removed and police will intervene only if breaches of the peace occur.
Residents and campaigners in Birmingham have intensified their calls for a civil injunction against Raise the Colours, accusing Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police of delaying necessary intervention. The group, which has been erecting England flags across the city since last summer, faces allegations of spreading anti-immigration rhetoric and intimidating local communities. Campaigners argue that the slow response from authorities has effectively granted the group free rein to operate within the city.
Sara, a member of Brummies United Against Racism, stated that the council is now “weeks away” from obtaining an injunction but expressed concern that this timeline is “a little too late” given the ongoing nature of the intimidation. She noted that residents have presented officials with extensive evidence, including videos and images of confrontations, yet feel the response has been sluggish compared to other jurisdictions.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by recent violent incidents. In May, a man was seriously injured in a hit-and-run after a group gathered to remove flags. West Midlands Police confirmed that two men were arrested in relation to the incident and released on bail. Adam, a resident involved in the removal efforts, described a consistent pattern of aggressive behaviour from group members, including accusations of unpatriotism and anti-immigration rhetoric during confrontations.
Political leaders within the city have acknowledged the complexity of the issue. Green Party councillor Duncan Ali described the council’s position as a “quagmire” but confirmed that the minority administration, comprising Greens, Liberal Democrats, and Better Birmingham Independent Group, is committed to stopping the group’s activities. Ali emphasised that while the legal process may take time and money, the administration would not allow the aggressive behaviour to continue.
Birmingham City Council maintained that attaching unauthorised items to public infrastructure is not permitted and that such items will be removed. The council acknowledged that recent flag-related activity has contributed to increased tensions and encouraged residents to act responsibly. Meanwhile, West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster has repeatedly urged the council and police to take “proactive and robust action,” including applying for a civil injunction, to tackle any harassment or criminal behaviour associated with the illegal erection of flags.
The demand for an injunction in Birmingham mirrors a recent high court order secured by Oxfordshire County Council against Raise the Colours and its co-founder, Ryan Bridge. The Oxfordshire injunction specifically names Bridge, who has faced legal challenges in multiple jurisdictions, including a 10-year travel ban from France for alleged attempts to stop migrants from crossing the Channel. Campaigners in Birmingham cite this precedent as evidence that swift legal action is both possible and necessary to protect community cohesion.
West Midlands Police clarified that the removal of flags is a matter for the local authority, while their role is to ensure that authorities can carry out their work without incident or breach of the peace. The force acknowledged the strength of feeling around the issue and stated it would continue to listen to community concerns. Raise the Colours has been contacted for comment regarding the allegations and the ongoing legal proceedings.