Allister Welcomes ASDA Apology on Union Flag
04 April 2012
TUV Leader Jim Allister MLA has welcomed an apology from ASDA regarding the removal of products in Northern Ireland with a Union flag symbol.
Mr Allister wrote to ASDA after receiving a number of complaints emanating from the Antrim and Coleraine stores.
Commenting Mr Allister stated:
“I welcome the clear apology from ASDA. I understand that a small number of republicans had complained to some local stores about the sale of items which carried a Union flag and the store subsequently removed them from sale.
“It was a ridiculous decision to remove any items associated with British culture because of narrow-minded and petty complaints from Republicans. Northern Ireland is part of the UK and no one should have any issue with the flag of our nation.
“I am therefore delighted that ASDA have assured me that in the run up to the Olympics and Jubilee “you won’t be able to move for the British branded products” in ASDA stores.
“I hope other retailers follow their example and make 2012 a year in which we celebrate our rich heritage and culture as part of the United Kingdom”.
Note to Editors:
The letter from ASDA to Mr Allister read as follows:
Dear Mr Allister
Thank you for contacting me about the Union Jack flag not being promoted on some of our products.
I’m sorry for the offense this has caused to your constituents. The email sent to a small number of suppliers was a badly worded note that shouldn’t have been sent out. It does not reflect the huge support we’ll be giving the Olympics and Jubilee – In fact you won’t be able to move for the British branded products in our stores.
Thank you for taking the time to provide us with feedback and if there is anything else I can help you with James, please let me know.
Yours Sincerely,
