4. Flag flying requests

4.1 The council shall reasonably consider any request for the flying of a flag not already provided for in this protocol.

4.2 Before approval to fly a guest flag is granted, the council will establish whether the proposed date for the guest flag to be flown would conflict with that of other flags.

4.3 When determining whether or not to fly a flag the council will be sensitive to the views of all sectors of its community and borough and any request will need to demonstrate the unity and diversity of the county and symbolise the values associated with the council.

4.4 The council will not allow the use of flags for party political purposes or for the purposes of commercial advertising.

4.5 Any decision regarding the flying of flags outside of this protocol will be made by the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader of the Council.

4.6 The council may in certain circumstances choose to deviate from this policy in circumstances where it is important to convey sympathy and support with a city, country or locality which Gloucestershire has a particular and established relationship with.

4.7 Other arrangements in response to requests from external organisations to fly flags or events requiring expressions of sympathy and support, such as books of condolence, will be discussed on a case by case basis and agreed by the Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader of the Council.