The regular chestnut has appeared again in The Times, that is, for or against displaying the George Cross on the national flag.

Since living here, I have been amused, bemused and taken affront at some of the comments published. Then, thankfully, Frans H. Said goes to print and, through his wordsmith skills, adds a lot of common sense to the debate.

Picture this scenario: the national flag, by whatever means, has the George Cross removed.

What are we left with? A vertical striped white (at the hoist) and red flag.

In my opinion, that would be quite bland.

But the flag will also indicate another meaning if that does occur. It will represent what is known as “flag Hotel”, used by international shipping to say “I have a pilot (navigator) on board”.

I would prefer the flag to continue bearing the George Cross, meaning “For Gallantry”.

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