Pride flags in Ockbrook & Borrowash

Erewash Liberal Democrats have reacted with dismay to the Pride flag debacle unfolding in Ockbrook & Borrowash. Despite flags having been already purchased, the local parish council voted not to fly them. Disregarding the heavy cross-party local backlash, the Parish Council has doubled-down on its decision, with the Parish Chair being clear that it was seen as granting a special privilege to a minority group. At least two Parish Councillors have resigned over this issue.

Erewash Liberal Democrats stand firmly behind the rights of ALL of us to live in a free, fair and decent society, where no-one is forced to choose between being themselves or being acceptable to others. As such, we roundly condemn both the initial decision not to fly the flags, and the later Council Statement which showed a clear lack of understanding around the important issues of Equality.

Local Lib Dem Spokesperson James Archer said "Both the Council's actions and their attempt at an explanation are narrow-minded and show a deep disrespect towards all our communities. The flying of a flag does not 'prioritise' a group over others - rather it shows the commitment of ALL of us to protect each other in society equally. The fact that the Council cannot see this, and does not understand its mistake is truly regrettable. We stand with the local community in opposing this."

The Lib Dem Borough Councillor Robert Mee, who is also on West Hallam Parish Council, said, "LGBTQ+ members of our communities can always rely on the Liberal Democrats to stand with them, both nationally and here in Erewash. I can't see any situation where I would vote against the flying of the Pride flag. This decision is so out of touch with popular sentiment."