Leeds for Europe launches campaign to fly European Union flag above city centre buildings

The pro-EU campaign group says it wants Leeds City Council to follow the example of Scotland, where a number of civic buildings display the flag alongside other national flags.

Supporters are being urged to contact their local councillors, asking them to back the proposal.

Leeds narrowly voted to stay in the European Union in the 2016 referendum - out of a 69.6 per cent turnout, 50.3 per cent of those voted to remain.

Leeds for Europe chairman Richard Wilson said the city remains an "important European city" which is "proudly British and European."

Mr Wilson said: "How Leeds voted in the referendum would be reason enough for us to show we remain both proudly British and European. But it would carry a much bigger message than that.

"Leeds remains a friendly and progressive international city. In recent days, yet again we have seen our government stirring up animosity with our friends in Europe as part of Brexit negotiations - Trump-style.

"That is not the way to treat immediate neighbours, like-minded allies, and important economic partners.

"Brexit deal or not, Leeds remains an important European city. It is something we should be highlighting and celebrating."

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