THURROCK’S new reform leadership has been slammed for its decision to remove the Ukrainian flag outside council offices and replace it with the Thurrock Coat of Arms reports the Local; Democracy Reporter.
The move, one of the group’s first acts after winning the local elections, saw council leader Richard Bingley raise the new flag on Thursday to mark the start of his administration.
Reform said the change was intended to celebrate the “borough, its heritage, and its identity”.
The coat of arms, granted in 1957, features the Latin motto Secundum Tamesim Quovis Gentium – meaning “along the Thames to all the peoples of the world”.
However, Conservative councillor Qaisar Abbas condemned the decision, arguing it risked sending the wrong message.
“Thurrock is proud of its history, heritage, and strong community spirit. Residents expect their council leadership to focus on delivering better services, fixing local problems, and improving lives – not engaging in divisive political gestures,” Mr Abbas said.
“The Ukrainian flag was raised to show our solidarity and support for democracy and sovereignty, not for any other political purpose.
“It is important to remember that in 2024, all Thurrock councillors – including Reform councillors – voted to strengthen ties with Ukraine.
“I also remember many Thurrock residents who opened their homes and supported Ukrainian families arriving in Thurrock.
“Removing the Ukrainian solidarity flag does nothing to help local families, businesses, or communities, but it does send the wrong signal at the wrong time.”
Mr Abbas said Thurrock Reform should now refocus its attention on the issues that matter most to residents – delivering reliable local services and supporting struggling families.
In a response to Mr Abbas, Reform cabinet member for corporate services, digital and transformation Alex Anderson said: “To label the replacement of the Ukrainian flag with Thurrock’s own coat of arms as ‘engaging in divisive political gestures’ is shameful.
“Thurrock Reform are proud of our borough, its heritage, and its identity. The Union Flag, St. George’s Cross and Thurrock’s coat of arms now fly outside of the council building. These aren’t selective and they aren’t sectionalist; they represent us all.
“Clearly some in the Conservative Party have a problem with this. Our message to them is simple – get over it.
“In the meantime, Thurrock Reform will get on with job we were elected to do – making Thurrock a better place to live for everyone.”
