MEPs have decided to revive symbols of the European Union like the flag and the anthem in an attempt to foster greater pride in the institution.
The flag, a politically correct motto and Beethoven’s Ode to Joy will all be used more by the European Parliament as it tries to help citizens identify more easily with the EU.
But Nigel Farage, leader of the UK Independence Party and an MEP himself, has accused his parliamentary colleagues of “trying to ram them down our throats”.
MEPs said: “Symbols are vital elements of any communication process.”
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The politicians stated they “convey an emotional image of the underlying values of the organisations they represent.”
With this in mind, they have decided to make more use of the flag and the motto “United in Diversity.” It is to be printed on all material emanating from the European Parliament.
More controversially, the finale from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, Ode to Joy, is also to be played more at official occasions.
