🔗 Share this article

A transformation has taken place in the Scottish landscape.

The saltire, traditionally supported by pro-independence groups, has currently been waved for a alternative movement.

Throughout the nation, the blue and white of Saint Andrew is flying from poles and being displayed with the union flag at rallies opposing migration.

In the past those two standards were more often seen on separate camps of the discussion regarding Scotland's future.

Now the display of the saltire is generating controversy of its own at protests from Perth to Aberdeen and from Glasgow to Falkirk.

Clashing Patriotisms

This conflict for the Scottish flag is furthermore a battle about what it signifies to be a nationalist in contemporary Scotland - a conflict between clashing national identities.

Key Figures

A leading figure is among the key voices in these current demonstrations.

He mixes objection to separation and migration with harsh critique of the national party.

They appropriated the saltire as their symbol and for many years we've allowed them to use it as a instrument of conflict and animosity.

Opposing Demonstrations

The gathering - kept apart from numerous opposing demonstrators by a barrier of law enforcement - cheered the denunciation of the SNP.

The SNP has wreaked havoc on our nation, undermining our wealth and our potential at every turn.

Migration Concerns

Immigration is an ongoing issue for Labour Prime Minister and appears to be rising up the agenda ahead of the Scottish government elections.

The migrant boat situation and the sheltering of migrants in temporary accommodation have fuelled demonstrations around the Britain.

Regional Opinions

One protester, who called himself Mark, held a union flag displaying "End Channel Crossings".

He claimed authorities should be addressing failing government services, not allocating citizen resources on medical treatment for migrants.

Opposing Views

Outside the hotel a gathering of alternative activists, including many trade unionists, had assembled.

They too were critical of the government leader – but for separate causes.

Economic Concerns

The opposing groups look to possess a feeling of dissatisfaction about the nation's weak finances and the weak situation of public services.

The real issue in contemporary Britain is the political leaders who aren't tackling these challenges head on.

Accommodation Shortage

A frequent grievance among demonstrators is about the quantity of immigrants being housed at local authority expense.

The issue is especially serious in Glasgow, which has the UK's highest number of refugees in council accommodation.

Representative Significance

An asylum seeker, a refugee who lives in northern Glasgow, believes the St. Andrew's Cross generally signifies calm, agreement and integration.

Yet he states it is currently being displayed "for the far-right and discrimination".

Community Impact

Debates about flags are not only occurring in large Scottish municipalities and blue-collar areas.

In the affluent Renfrewshire community of the Weir Bridge area, the raising of Scottish flags has caused controversy on the community social media.

Political Implications

The government head John Swinney said debates concerning migration were being "fueled by a larger conversation" going on in the Britain and internationally.

I advocate for a Scotland that is open-minded, receptive and comprehensive.

Voting Possibilities

Polls ahead of May's Holyrood election suggest a big lead for the SNP.

Regardless of which flags are displayed by whichever party in the political race, migration seems probable to take its place alongside the economy and public services as a significant topic.