AMs Appeal For Welsh Pride

Since 2001, there has been much confusion concerning the display of national flags on number plates and Assembly Members in Wales last night put forward a pledge to alter the rules to allow for the Welsh Red Dragon.

Currently, the European and GB Union are the only flags recognised in the DVLA's rules despite a pledge given seven years ago to alter the regulations. Assembly member, Janet Ryder, has asked for this 'promise' to be dealt with. She said that it is unfair that drivers currently displaying the Welsh flag are at risk of a £1000 fine and a failed MOT. She said:

"The change I am proposing will achieve consistency and clarity in our law-making."

Kirsty Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrats' transport spokeswoman branded the plan a complete waste of Assembly time, believing that Wales presently faces far more serious issues. She said:

"The authorities already turn a blind eye to this, so anyone who wants to fly the flag on their number plate may do so."

Ms. Ryder strongly disagrees with Ms. Williams's views, and said, "Everyone will have different views of what a Government's priorities should be. This is not in the same league as nationalising banks, but this should be put right".

Those in favour of Ms. Ryder's proposal agree that it is unfair that the Welsh flag is not currently recognised in the DVLA's rules. Although told that the police 'turn a blind eye' to those displaying the Red Dragon on their car registrations, Ms. Ryder said, "The law should be the same for everybody, not at somebody's discretion".

An Assembly Goverment spokesman last night supported Ms. Ryder's proposal, saying, "Wales takes pride in its national flag and we support the proposal to formalise the display of national flags on number plates".

Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones will soon be meeting with UK Transport Minister, Jim Fitzpatrick to put the proposal forward.

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