HAMPSHIRE Fire service has banned its crews from supporting England in the World Cup by flying the St George's Cross at fire stations and on vehicles.
A spokesman for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said the ban has been imposed out of fear that the flags could upset people of other nationalities.
But firefighters have said they believe the service has gone too far because of political correctness.
Jim Buck, crew manager at Gosport Fire Station, said: "I do not think the public would have a problem with the flags as we just want to support our country in the World Cup."
The brigade's head of operational delivery, Kevin Butcher, has sent a memo to all stations in Hampshire advising crews of the ban.
It states: "The display of any flags, stickers or advertising material other than that approved by the service is not permitted on any vehicles or premises owned by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service."
Mr Butcher added that the fire service had a responsibility to be "inclusive of all nationalities" living within the county and to appear professional at all times.
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