World Cup Flag Ban Causes Public Outcry

St George Flags banned but company make concession

The ban on refuse collectors across Ealing borough flying the flag during the forthcoming World Cup has caused a public outcry.

May Gurney, the company who operate the licence, told workers that flags will be removed because of 'health and safety reasons' and 'inconsistency of the corporate identity'.

Doug Teesdale, Contract Manager of May Gurney, said, ''It is important that we convey a strong and coherent image on behalf of our customers and the general public. This consistency can only be achieved if everyone follows our guidelines correctly and these flags do not adhere to our professional brand or Health and Safety Policy. Therefore we have stated that any flags found on company vehicles will be removed."

Their decision has been widely condemned and branded 'bonkers' by Ealing North MP Stephen Pound prompting the May Gurney to make a concession.

A spokesperson told EalingToday.co.uk, "We understand people want to support their teams during the world cup and following discussions with the GMB May Gurney is allowing staff to wear baseball caps during the tournament. The GMB have offered the same advice to other waste management and environmental services."

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June 9, 2010