PM gaffe as she flies the flag for England
THERESA May has risked the wrath of Welsh football fans by suggesting Downing Street will fly the St George’s flag during next year’s Women’s World Cup – even though Wales can pip England to qualification.
Jayne Ludlow’s side meet Phil Neville’s England in a make-or-break group finale in Wales on August 31.
Victory for Wales would mean they, not England, qualify for the finals in France. The Lionesses would have to make do, at best, with a back door play-off route, but could miss out altogether.
However, it would appear Mrs May was not aware of the success of Wales and the precarious position England are in, as she addressed the men’s World Cup in Russia during Prime Minister’s Questions in The House Of Commons.
Nick Boles, MP for Grantham and Stamford, asked whether public buildings in England would be encouraged to fly the St George’s Cross to celebrate the current success of Gareth Southgate’s side in Russia. England have beaten Tunisia and Panama to already qualify for the last 16.
The Prime Minister responded: “I assure my honourable friend that Number 10 will be flying the England flag on the day of each of England’s matches from now on.
“And we will be encouraging other government departments to do the same.”
After much cheering, the Prime Minister continued: “But can I also say to my honourable friend that I’m going to go further than my predecessors. Next year, we will do the same for the Women’s World Cup!”
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