Leader of Liberal Democrat run Dacorum Borough Council, Sally Symington has asked the Dacorum council officers to overturn their original decision to reject calls for a military parade on the eightieth anniversary of VE Day. The parade was initially rejected as it was considered "too elitist".
Dacorum's original decision to reject a parade was met with scathing criticism. Conservative MP David Reed posted to X:
The horrors of World War Two should never be forgotten. VE Day gives our nation the opportunity to remember and show gratitude to those brave men and women who gave up so much to keep the UK free from tyranny.
It’s sickening to learn that the Liberal Democrat run Dacorum council in Hertfordshire have forgotten who paid for their freedom. I can’t fathom why councillors are rejecting their local VE Day anniversary parade, and branding the day as ‘too elitist’. This warped and unBritish world view should be called out and I really hope that there will be repercussions to councillors who are propagating this absolute nonsense.
With the world becoming a more volatile place, it’s essential that our country remembers the devastating effects of war. Only by doing so can we attempt to avoid future conflict. The Lib Dems in Hertfordshire need to wake up and appreciate this fact.
-- David Reed MP, April 9th, 2025
Ms Symington has been quoted in The Telegraph as saying:
"I and my cabinet have asked council officers to look again at their decision and do whatever it takes to put on a parade, as well as the street parties I hope lots of neighbourhoods take part in.
"VE Day is a time to bring Hertfordshire and the country together, especially in this era of uncertainty and division. That’s why I have taken action in this case."
https://twitter.com/David__Reed/status/1909904596706775237
