The Royal British Legion (RBL) branch in Faversham, Kent, has issued a powerful and unequivocal warning to local political groups. They insist that the town’s upcoming Remembrance Day commemorations must not be used as a platform for political protest or partisan disputes.
Officials from the local RBL chapter have stated clearly that the annual ceremony is an occasion for solemn, respectful reflection. It honours the sacrifice made by the Armed Forces, both in the past and in current operations. The core message is a strict demand for absolute non-partisanship. Any attempt to display political banners, push slogans, or cause disruption will be strongly condemned. Local authorities are working closely with the RBL to prevent any such attempts.
The Sanctity of Commemoration
The Faversham RBL’s primary goal is to safeguard the sacred nature of the Remembrance events. A spokesperson for the branch stressed a long-standing principle: the day is meant to bring the community together. It is about honouring “all who have served and sacrificed,” regardless of their political alignment.
Geoff Austin, the RBL branch Chairman, was direct in his message to the public. He was quoted by the local press as stating: “Remembrance is apolitical, and should remain so.” Mr Austin emphasised that the day’s purpose is exclusively to honour the war dead and support veterans.
The Chairman added that the local branch would have “no tolerance for any organisation or group that attempts to hijack or use the Remembrance parade for their own political ends.” This firm statement leaves no room for doubt about the organisers’ intentions.
This year’s explicit call to order is a reaction to a worrying national trend. Political narratives have sometimes tried to override or ‘co-opt’ ceremonies dedicated to the fallen. Faversham’s organisers are determined to ensure their parade remains focused solely on military commemoration and remembrance.
Why the Local Warning is Needed
The strong language from the RBL in Faversham is a direct response to a backdrop of increasing political and social activity within the Kent town. Recent months have seen various activist groups stage local demonstrations. These activities, often linked to national arguments or contentious local issues, have sometimes made public spaces feel volatile. The RBL is using this warning as a pre-emptive step. This ensures the war memorial and the traditional parade route remain areas of complete political neutrality.
For veterans, the service and the quiet reflection it provides are crucial. The RBL views any disruption or partisan show as a profound disrespect. It takes away from the respectful experience that service personnel and their families deserve.
Clear Rules for Respect
To protect the ceremony’s focus, the Faversham RBL has set out a few, clear rules for all people attending the event:
- No Political Messaging: Signs, flags, or clothing that promote any political party, cause, or activist message are strictly banned near the parade and service areas.
- Silence is Mandatory: Participants must observe the protocols, especially the two-minute silence. This is a core part of the Act of Remembrance and a moment for quiet, national contemplation.
- Focus on the Military: The entire event must be dedicated to honouring the service personnel of Britain and the Commonwealth.
Local police and the town council are working in close cooperation with the RBL. They aim to guarantee that the day’s events proceed with dignity and without interruption.
The Principle of Apolitical Remembrance
Faversham’s situation mirrors a wider national effort to shield Remembrance Day from modern political battles. The national RBL body has consistently upheld a non-negotiable stance on the ceremony’s political integrity. They see the poppy and the events as symbols of unconditional gratitude and support for the veteran community, not as platforms for any political view.
This principle is vital. Allowing the event to be compromised by political conflict, even by groups who claim to support the military, is seen as betraying its most basic, unifying function.
The RBL’s clear instruction in Faversham is a local directive and a powerful restatement of a national value. It is a plea for civility. The community is being asked to temporarily halt all political hostilities. This single moment allows the town to properly honour its past. The success of the day will depend entirely on the community’s willingness to embrace unity and respect, just as the Royal British Legion expects.
