A funeral passed me in the street today, and the coffin in the hearse was draped with a Union Jack. I've only ever seen this at military funerals, and I wondered whether there were any rules or regulations about using the flag at funerals, is it only permitted for military funerals or can anyone use it?

I don't see why you would consider it to be an issue. It wouldn't be my choice, but why not, if the deceased wanted a rubber duck on their coffin, or a european, scottish or english flag, then that's ok with me too.

Who said it was an issue?, I was just curious about whether there was any tradition or rule about it. This country abounds with traditions and customs and I find it interesting.

I think rules about flags in this country tend to relate to ensigns etc on ships and royal standards at the palaces and castles when the queen is in residence.

AFAIK the union javk can be mangled pretty much any way you choose, including printing it onto bogpaper. This suggests to me that any existing rules aren't widely observed or enforced.

It is traditionally used in military funerals, including those of retired servicemen. My great grandfather was apparently 'entitled' to have a Union Jack draped over his coffin but he chose not to, although I'm not sure whether this was because he'd served in the military or because he had an MBE.

Originally posted by Twiglet
It is traditionally used in military funerals, including those of retired servicemen. My great grandfather was apparently 'entitled' to have a Union Jack draped over his coffin but he chose not to, although I'm not sure whether this was because he'd served in the military or because he had an MBE.
Thanks Twiglet, that's what I was wondering .:thumbsup: