Liverpool Councillor Alan Gibbons claims he was followed home by three men in a car after challenging them about hanging england flags in the city, prompting concerns of intimidation. The incident occurred after Gibbons confronted the group, and a resident subsequently informed him they were being photographed, according to a statement he provided.
The alleged surveillance comes amid a backdrop of heightened tensions surrounding displays of national flags in liverpool, particularly in the lead-up to and during major football tournaments. While the city generally embraces diverse expressions of identity, unauthorized flag displays on public infrastructure raise safety concerns for Liverpool Council, wich routinely removes such attachments. The incident raises questions about the line between patriotic expression and potential intimidation tactics, and whether the council’s policy contributes to the current climate.Gibbons stated, “After I had challenged them, I walked home. A resident has just told me I was followed by three men in a car taking photographs of me, which is a clear attempt at intimidation.”
Liverpool Council confirmed it has previously removed a small number of flags from streetlights as part of its standard protocol. A spokesperson explained, ”This is part of our standard protocol, as we routinely remove any unauthorised attachments from street furniture to ensure public safety.”
The council further emphasized the safety risks posed by unauthorized attachments, stating, “Any attachments to street furniture, such as streetlights, could present a serious safety risk to road users. if they are not secured properly, they could cause an accident, and the placement of items could reduce visibility on the road.”
Merseyside Police has been contacted for comment.
