SNP anger at decision not to fly Saltire every day

Published on Thursday 7 October 2004 00:11

Key points

• Saltire only to fly on 'special days'

• SNP criticise national emblem decision

Key quote

"I cannot believe that here, in the new Scots’ national parliament, we have one of the most distinctive buildings in Scotland, yet we are not going to fly our national flag outside, 24/7" - Bruce Crawford, SNP MSP

Story in full THE SNP reacted in anger yesterday when it emerged that the Saltire will not be flown from the Scottish Parliament - except on special days, and then only alongside other flags.

Bruce Crawford, an SNP MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife, said the decision would cause "amazement" and visitors would be astonished to find that the Scottish Parliament was not able to fly the Scottish flag at all times.

The Scottish Parliament has flown the Saltire on certain occasions - to mark the visits of dignitaries and for other events - but it has never been policy to fly it all the time.

Mr Crawford said: "I cannot believe that here, in the new Scots’ national parliament, we have one of the most distinctive buildings in Scotland, yet we are not going to fly our national flag outside, 24/7."

A spokesman for the Scottish Parliament said the issue would be looked at later this year. He stressed that there would be two Saltires flying for the Royal opening on Saturday, alongside the Royal Standard and the Union flag.