With St Patrick’ Day celebrations in full swing across many parts of the UK, a survey for the think-tank British Future suggests more than three-quarters of the public (76 per cent) want St George’s Day to be celebrated with as much enthusiasm as St Patrick’s Day.
However, this makes people feel very awkward, especially on the left-leaning side of the political spectrum (if one can lean on a spectrum).
According to Jon Cruddas, a close adviser to Ed Miliband, the Liberal Left should stop feeling guilty about flying the flag of St George and celebrate “Englishness” – whatever that might be.
Mr Cruddas said: “As someone with both English and Irish roots I find it odd that we celebrate St Patrick more than St George in this country.
“There’s certainly no harm in everyone enjoying a pint of Guinness on the 17 March but why aren’t the pubs just as full on 23 April?
“There’s a bit of fear on the liberal left that waving the St George’s flag might make you look like a supporter of the English Defence League. Well it will if they’re the only ones doing it.”
Cruddas makes a good point re “if they’re the only ones doing it” but…how long will that take and what would be the impact of any party or organisation championing this line?
Is patriotism inherently divisive/destructive?
Step forward Mr Farage…
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