Boris Johnson: Embassies can fly rainbow flags

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has given the go-ahead for foreign embassies to fly rainbow flags, in a change of position from his predecessor.

The rainbow flag, used as an LGBT symbol, will be allowed to be flown overseas on specific days, including the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.

Previously only the flags of the United Kingdom, its overseas territories and the EU flag were to be displayed.

Export gay marriage

But in a statement to homosexual news website PinkNews, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) said that the new Secretary of State had given his support for a shift in policy.

“The Foreign Secretary has agreed that FCO buildings, including at diplomatic missions overseas, can fly the rainbow flag in order to mark relevant international days such as the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) and locally relevant events, such as local Pride celebrations”, it said.

Former Prime Minister David Cameron said in 2013 that he wanted to export same-sex marriage around the world.

Speaking at a party to mark the passage of legislation on the issue, Mr Cameron said Westminster had been an example of how to “pass good legislation in good time”.

Pastor’s challenge

Later, it was announced that homosexual Britons in countries where same-sex marriage was not permitted would be able to marry at British consulates.

Chris Bryant, a former Foreign Office Minister, said at the time: “Part of the Foreign Office’s job is to export British values abroad.”

In 2015 an influential Christian pastor challenged believers who celebrate same-sex marriage.

Bible

Kevin DeYoung made the comments in a post for The Gospel Coalition website, where he asked: “How long have you believed that gay marriage is something to be celebrated?”

He also said: “What Bible verses led you to change your mind?” and “On what basis, if any, would you prevent consenting adults of any relation and of any number from getting married?”