Broadcaster Eamonn Holmes warned one of his guests to not lecture him over the flying of the Union flag, citing growing up in Northern Ireland where it “represented something political and anti to a certain religion”.
Mr Holmes, who presents a programme on GB News, made the comments during a debate over the flying of the flag over a village hall in Norfolk.
“Let me just tell you something. You don’t have to lecture me. I sit in the middle, trying to see both sides of things. You did not grow up in Northern Ireland where a flag represented something political, I did, I had to live with it,” he told a guest before adding: “Give me a break”.
The proposed flying of the flag in the village of Claxton, population 300, prompted “strong reactions for and against”, with some arguing it could put people off moving to the village.
Mr Holmes was leading the discussion on his morning programme on Tuesday with guests Imarn Ayton, an anti-racism activist, and Rafe Heydel-Mankoo, a royal broadcaster and historian.
The historian described the flag as “about as British as warm beer” but Ayton argued it is sometimes associated with far-right symbolism and therefore potentially divisive.
Mr Holmes suggested that the flying of the flag was not a big issue, asking: “Running a flag outside a village hall in Norfolk, you sort of think what’s the big deal.”
Ms Ayton said: “I know you’ve finished your segment but Eamonn I’m not going to let you finish with that one”.
She added: “Be considerate of other people’s beliefs and views. If you are considerate and sympathetic of everyone and how we perceive the world, you might find yourself leading with equality.
“Just so you know, I’ll finish it there.”
Mr Holmes replied with his remarks about not being lectured and spoke about growing up in the north.
When Ms Ayton suggested the presenter should let her close the discussion, he replied: “I’m trying to say you did not grow up in Northern Ireland, where a flag represented something political and anti to a certain religion in Northern Ireland, I did.”
The guest said: “And just like with black people, you are not black sir and I understand racism more than you.”
Mr Holmes ended the segment: “Ahh give me a break. Let’s go to the break. Back after this.”