ECC20536815 06 26 - Libraries - Advertising and promotion of Pride events

  • Received date12/07/2026
  • Business area Libraries
  • OutcomeInformation not held
  • SourceMember of the Public

Request summary

Freedom of Information Act Request


Reference:    ECC20536815 06 26
Response:    01 July 2026

 

I can confirm that Essex County Council does not hold this information.

 

Following the 2026 local elections, it has been reported that Essex Council has made a decision that Pride flags or other material promoting or advertising Pride should not be displayed in council-run libraries. I have several questions in relation to that decision:

Question 1 - When was this decision made?

Question 2 - Who made this decision?

Question 3 - What is the legal basis of this decision; for example, has the council purported to exercise any statutory powers?

Question 4 - What is the content of the decision; for example, that council-run libraries should not display Pride flags or leaflets or posters promoting pride?

Question 5 - Was there an assessment of whether this is compatible with the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) under section 149 of the Equality Act 2010?

Question 6 - Was an equality impact assessment carried out prior to the decision?

Question 7 - Was there consideration of whether to consult affected individuals or communities prior to the decision?

 

No such decision was made, ECC did not make a decision that Pride flags or other materials promoting or advertising Pride should not be displayed in council-run libraries.

 

Please see attached FAQ.

 

Your Right to Know

Democracy and Transparency

Essex County Council

Telephone: 033301 38989

Email: YourRight.ToKnow@essex.gov.uk | www.essex.gov.uk

 

Response

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