Following the terrorist attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils, and the tragic deaths that resulted, it is appropriate that flags should be flown at half-mast on Friday 18th August. The guidance issued by HM Government states only one day of half-masting, but in previous incidents we have had three days of half-masting, so flags could also fly at half-mast at the weekend.
In the UK you are free to fly the national flag at half-mast whenever you feel it is appropriate. Any other national flags, other than those of Spain and Catalonia (who are in mourning), should be removed, and all other flags in the same set must be at half-mast. If it is not physically possible to fly the flag at half-mast, for example it is on an angled pole projecting from the building, then you can add a black cravat or ribbon to the top of the flag, nearest the flag pole.
Full guidance on flying flags at half-mast can be found in our booklet “Flying Flags in the United Kingdom”, which can be downloaded free-of-charge from this website.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Catalonia and the families and friends of those killed and injured in this terrible event.
Graham Bartram
Chief Vexillologist
