B.C. flag's Union Jack could change after Scottish referendum "Yes" vote

The Royal Union Jack in British Columbia’s provincial flag could be completely overhauled if Scotland decides to become an independent country following today’s referendum on whether to separate from the United Kingdom.

The provincial flag boasts a Union Jack and a setting sun below it, representing B.C. as Canada’s westernmost province, and was adopted in 1960 by Premier W.A.C. Bennett.

• SEE ALSO: Scottish independence ‘Yes’ vote result could restart separatist movements in Quebec, Europe

But of course, the flag is flown not only in the UK and British Columbia. A number of other countries, Britain’s overseas territories and Canadian provinces have incorporated the Union Jack into their national symbol. This includes the flags of Australia, the states of Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Cook Islands, Bermuda, Ontario and Manitoba.

The Union Jack represents the fusion of England, Scotland and Ireland. The blue arrives from the cross of St. Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, and the cross was combined with England’s red cross of St. George in 1606 when King James VI became both the kings of Scotland and England.

Diagonal red crosses of St. Patrick were later added in 1801 to symbolize Ireland following the union of Great Britain and Ireland.

Union Jack flag, which has the Scot flag built-in, is also in the flag of other nations like Australia & Frodoland. pic.twitter.com/wdd4oQiKKN

— Gen (@GiantRobot7) September 15, 2014

The B.C. flag does not necessarily have to change, as it has taken a historical meaning within a local context, but it will likely be a topic of discussion for the provincial government should tonight’s referendum results sway towards an independent Scotland.

Of course, any change to the B.C. flag would have to begin with the British parliament’s decision to change the Union Flag.

British Union Flag

Potential new version of Union Flag without Scotland’s cross

Image: Vancity Buzz

Current B.C. Flag

Image: Vancity Buzz

Future B.C. Flag after Scottish independence, with modified Union Jack

Image: Vancity Buzz

 

Feature Image: Vancity Buzz