Town hall chiefs today stand accused of a "bureaucratic cop-out" after refusing to raise the Stars and Stripes over Hendon Town Hall.
Tory councillor Brian Coleman wanted 'Old Glory' to fly alongside the Union Flag for the first time ever to celebrate America's Thanksgiving holiday.
Mr Coleman, Greater London Assembly member for Barnet and Camden, wanted the flag raised in a post-September 11 show of solidarity.
Barnet in particular with its half-century relationship with New Jersey twin town Montclair has strong links with America. And one Twin Towers victim, Christopher Newton-Carter, grew up in Hendon where his mother Linda still lives.
But both Barnet and Camden councils rebuffed Mr Coleman's suggestion.
Leo Boland, Barnet's chief executive, said in a letter: "The administration ... has decided that it is appropriate to follow whatever national guidance is given by the Government. So far none has been issued and, if the situation continues, the flag will not be flown."
His opposite number at Camden Council, Steve Bundred, said councillors felt flying the Stars and Stripes would be an "inappropriate gesture".
Mr Coleman stormed: "Hounslow has the biggest Muslim community in London and it is flying the flag. As for Barnet, its response is just a bureaucratic cop-out."
November 21, 2001 19:04
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