UMVA has learned that a controversy is brewing over a flag featuring the emblem of local football club Barrow A.F.C. and a submarine silhouette, which was set to be displayed by England fans at the World Cup.
The flag in question showcases the name and badge of Barrow A.F.C., along with a nod to the town's submarine and shipbuilding industry. However, world football's governing body deemed the flag unacceptable due to the submarine image, citing it as a military or weapon-related symbol.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the governing body's response read: 'The application was rejected because the item includes imagery of weapons or military (submarine). These are not permitted under policy.' The governing body offered to reconsider the application if the imagery was covered up.
John Little, a Barrow supporter, expressed his dismay at the decision, stating: 'I couldn't believe it really, it's a little bit harsh that they've done it for something like that. I could understand like guns and knives and what have you, but not a submarine. It's not like you can go down to the local store and buy a submarine, is it.'
The flag was allowed at England's friendly against Costa Rica, but not for actual World Cup games. Little and others plan to cover up the image and resubmit their application as per the governing body's instructions.
Flags are proving to be a headache at the World Cup, with the governing body also banning Iran supporters from taking their pre-revolutionary standard into matches, deeming it a political symbol. England fans have also been affected, with many flags being forcibly removed by officials.
The governing body has cited 'safety and security reasons' for the ban, adding that only small flags, banners, and posters made of fire-resistant materials are allowed in the stadium. Larger flags and banners require prior approval.
England is set to take on Ghana in their second Group L match in Boston on Tuesday, with kick-off at 9pm UK time.
