This council: flagship · Climate · Heritage
Reform UK has led Gateshead Council since May 2026 (source).
Gateshead Council did not fly the Pride flag during Pride Month 2026.[1] The Leader said the decision followed a standing administration policy against promoting social or political causes.[1]
At the Full Council meeting on 4 June 2026, Councillor Edge asked the Leader why the Council had chosen not to fly the Pride flag during Pride Month 2026.[1] The Leader, Councillor Allan, confirmed the Council had declined to fly the flag.[1] He said the matter was in line with the administration's policy not to promote social political organisations, and that the administration was not focused on promoting social or political causes in Gateshead.[1] In reply, Councillor Edge said that some other newly Reform-led councils in the North East had chosen to continue flying the Pride flag during Pride Month.[2]
“This matter is in line with our policy not to promote social political organisations. Our administration is focused on the governance of the Council and not on promoting social political causes in Gateshead.” Minutes, 4 June 2026 ↗
“Can the Leader explain why the Council has chosen not to fly the Pride flag during Pride Month this year, and whether the Council intends to reduce or withdraw” Minutes, 4 June 2026 ↗
“some new Reform Party led Councils across the North East who had chosen not to align with national policy and did still choose to fly the Pride flag during Pride month.” Minutes, 4 June 2026 ↗