Midlothian Council staff warned not to display Scotland flags during World Cup

Midlothian Council has warned staff not to display Scotland flags or wear national team jerseys during the World Cup.

In a move which has been condemned by Labour councillors, the local authority has told workers that displaying support for the men’s team could cause “unintended offence” to colleagues

Former council leader Derek Milligan said the move had angered staff, while one worker at a secondary school said they had been told to take down flags in the reception area.

However, a council spokesperson insisted it was not a ban but a reminder to staff to be mindful of others during the World Cup, adding schools across the county were taking part in projects celebrating the competition.

Councillor Milligan said the council’s decision was “political correctness gone daft”.

He said: “At a time when people around the world are coming together to celebrate the spirit of international sport, this decision by the SNP-run council has been met with real anger by many staff members.

“They believe that supporting their national team is a way to foster camaraderie and celebrate shared pride. They feel that the council’s stance is simply political correctness gone daft rather than encouraging team spirit and national pride.

“While respecting workplace policies, it is important that on special occasions such as the World Cup, common sense is applied.”

Mr Milligan said a worker at Lasswade High School who did not want to be named told him: “We have been made to take down all our flags that were up around the reception area and told that we can’t wear the Scotland top at our place of work.

“I remember the independence referendum where certain SNP councillors were happy to fly Scotland flags from Midlothian council buildings, but now they are telling us we are not allowed to wear anything that shows we are supporting our national team.”

The memo to workers said: “With the Men’s World Cup underway and following Scotland’s success at the weekend, we know many colleagues will be keen to show their support.

“We are pleased to see the enthusiasm, but as a reminder, our workplace needs to remain inclusive and welcoming for everyone. We have a diverse workforce and displays such as flags, team shirts or other football paraphernalia can sometimes be open to different interpretations or cause unintended offence.

“To ensure we maintain a professional and neutral environment for all, colleagues are reminded of the appropriate dress code and not to display flags, wear team shirts or bring football-related items into the workplace during this period. Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.”

A spokesperson for Midlothian Council said: “We’re just as proud as the rest of the nation, Scotland is in the World Cup. We’re just asking staff to be mindful that we have a diverse workforce and displays such as flags, team shirts or other football paraphernalia can sometimes be open to different interpretations or cause unintended offence.

“Our schools are running World Cup-themed events, projects and initiatives; our school catering teams are promoting World Cup-themed menus, with decorative bunting; and our leisure centres are embracing the occasion with World Cup-themed bunting and related activities. This is all absolutely acceptable.”