Union flag will NOT be flown at Edinburgh Castle at the Tattoo this year and THIS is why
THE Union flag will NOT be flown at one of the most famous events in the Scottish calendar this year, as performers from all over the world march through Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Military Tattoo celebrates talent from around the world
According to the Ministry of Defence it is not possible to fly the flag more commonly referred to as the Union Jack at the 2017 event military tattoo.
The Government claimed the reason for the decision is because there is an issue with the scaffolding and repair works will not be completed in time for the August showcase.
But with the issue of another Scottish independence referendum repeatedly raised by Nicola Sturgeon's SNP, the decision could cause major upset.
Union flag will not be flown at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Edinburgh Tattoo will not take place with Union flag flying in 2017
In a statement, the MoD said: "Work is being carried out to replace the Crown Square clock tower flagpole, which as a flag-flying station the MoD are responsible for, in the upper ward area of Edinburgh Castle.
"This is due to a failure in the flagpole mechanism.
"Temporary high-level scaffolding will be in place for this project, which is expected to finish in September.
"All areas and exhibits within the Crown Square area of the Castle will remain open to visitors as normal throughout the duration of the works."
The 90ft pole, is currently surrounded by scaffolding as workers attempt to fix problems with the flagraising mechanism.
The flagpole, maintained by the MoD, usually flies the union flag which is visible from across Edinburgh and the huge audience of which 30 per cent, or 220,000 people, will be from overseas.
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The Union flag is the official flag of the United Kingdom after adoption in 1801
The mechanism issues are not expected to be properly addressed until mid-September.
British, Commonwealth and international military bands will still perform.
A representative from The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo said: "Work is still being carried out to replace the Crown Square clock tower flagpole, but there will be a Union flag flying above The Gatehouse."
The Union Flag was adopted in 1801 and represents each member of the United Kingdom.