The Scottish Parliament has been presented with a motion asking the MSPs to approve the proposal of the Scottish Socialist Party to introduce a new “rainbow” flag which they believe better represents the cultural and ethnic diversity of Scotland.
The Saltire, which bears the cross of St. Andrew – the patron saint of Scotland and one of Christ’s disciples – is a dated relic, says Colin Fox, leader of the Scottish Socialist party.
Mr Fox asserted that a secular country like Scotland which is home to people belonging to many different religions should not have a Christian symbol as its national emblem.
The Saltire is one of the oldest flags in the world, having been used since 832AD, when St Andrew is said to have appeared in a vision to Angus MacFergus, the Pictish king, on the eve of the Battle of Athelstaneford against the Northumbrians. Legend has it a white cross formed from clouds appeared in the sky.I am appalled by any suggestion it should be downgraded or scrapped. The idea that Scotland should pretend that it hasn’t got a long Christian heritage is ludicrous.
Chairman of the Saltire Society, Ian Scott
Mr Fox said the flag was an “anachronism” and that it is time for it to go, despite orders from Scotland’s first minister, Jack McConnell, last year to fly the Saltire in every public building.
The leader of the SSP said: “Who was St Andrew? He was someone who never came here, so his connection to Scotland is tenuous to say the least. I’d like the Scotland of today to reflect the many different cultures here.
