Scottish government drops flag logo over Russian resemblance

The Scottish government has dropped its traditional logo on all communications because of its close resemblance to the Russian naval flag.

The Saltire emblem — a blue cross on a white background — has been “urgently” retired, senior staff were told in an email seen by POLITICO, and should not be used “under any circumstances.”

It will also be removed from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s COVID briefing backdrop, the Times reported.

A spokeswoman said: “The white with blue Saltire version of the Scottish government logo is part of the organization’s approved branding toolkit” but will no longer be used “given the situation in Ukraine.”

Also known as the St Andrew’s flag, the emblem was first used as the Russian navy ensign in the early 18th century and was revived as that of the Russian Federation in 1992. St Andrew is patron saint of both Scotland and Russia.

NHS Scotland has sent medical supplies to Ukraine, while Sturgeon has called on the U.K. government to follow the example of Ireland and waive visa requirements for Ukrainian nationals.