AN Essex County Council email urging staff to speak out if they feel “unsettled” by flags being put up across England has been described as “bonkers” by the authority’s deputy leader reports the Local Democracy Reporter.

Conservative councillor Louise McKinlay has used her mayoral campaign to criticise the email. Recently, both the Union Jack and St George’s Cross flags have been raised around the country, while red crosses have been painted on mini roundabouts and signs.

Councillor McKinlay said people who were adversely affected needed to “get a grip”.

She wrote on her ‘McKinlay for Mayor’ Facebook page: “Frankly, this is both wrong and bonkers in equal measures. If you’re feeling ‘unsettled’ by our nation’s flag, pour yourself a long drink, sit down and get a grip.”

The email has also sparked anger among elected officials, who warn that “further actions will be considered” following an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the email sent from children’s services to staff about concerns they could have about flying the Union and St George’s flags.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Kevin Bentley, said: “At no time was this discussed with politicians at Essex County Council, which has infuriated the leadership. It is not the policy of the council.

“We have been clear that we support people who wish to raise the two flags, and they will not be removed unless there is a hazard to motorists or pedestrians.”

The council adds that the investigation will report directly back to cabinet “when further actions will be considered”.

Former councillor Russell Quirk, who is standing for Reform UK in the upcoming Brentwood by-election and who also has sights on becoming mayor of Essex, said: “Here we have the deputy leader of Essex County Council doing two things.

“Firstly, cynically distancing herself from the actions of the council that she herself is in charge of.

“Second, throwing her colleagues under the bus publicly for an ignorant email communication that has been lampooned by the UK media for its utter wokeness.

“I’m afraid that Ms McKinlay really must take responsibility for her own organisation, albeit taking responsibility for their own actions doesn’t seem to be much of a priority for the Conservative Party anymore”.