Union Flags and King’s portraits are set to become fixtures in schools under plans announced by Reform UK. The party has pledged to require schools to display portraits of King Charles and fly the Union Flag if it comes into power.
In addition to the Union Jack, schools would also be mandated to fly England’s Cross of St George, Scotland’s Saltire, and Wales’ Red Dragon. This move aims to promote a stronger sense of national identity across the UK.
Reform UK also plans to introduce “patriotic” history lessons designed to boost British pride. The party promises this overhaul will take place within 100 days of taking office, aiming to reverse what it describes as decades of “substandard” teaching.
Suella Braverman, Reform’s prospective Education Secretary, criticised previous governments, saying, “Tory and Labour governments have failed a generation of young people with a substandard curriculum that undermines academic rigour and national identity in favour of promoting their mass migration agenda.”
She added, “Reform will end this. As Education Secretary I will introduce a new curriculum that will rekindle national pride and ensure every child leaves school understanding what a privilege it is to be British.”
However, some commentators question whether displaying flags and portraits will truly inspire patriotism. Critics argue that such measures mainly appeal to the stereotypical flag-waving crowd and draw comparisons to authoritarian regimes like North Korea.
One critic remarked, “Surely the best way to make people feel patriotic is by having a strong economy, affordable living, and young people able to pursue careers without drowning in debt. Patriotism can’t be forced by displays alone – you can’t eat a flag.”
Looking ahead, Reform UK will need broader policies to gain widespread support in the 2029 elections. While the party is clearly focused on stirring national pride, it remains to be seen if flag displays and patriotic lessons will be enough to win over voters.
Originally published by UKNIP.
