A “woke” council was branded “shameful” after rejecting calls for a military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day because it is “elitist”. Liberal Democrats denied residents the opportunity for a formal ceremony and instead suggested they host their own street parties. Commemorations across the country on May 8 will mark the end of World War 2 in Europe, including a church service attended by the Royal Family.
But Dacorum Borough Council in Hertfordshire will not honour veterans, families, and local residents with a parade to mark the occasion. Shadow defence minister David Reed, a Royal Marines veteran, said the decision was an “outrageous” attempt to erase British history. “If it makes me elitist to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, freedom over tyranny and bravery over cowardice, then lock me up and throw away the key,” he said.
March 8 marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Image: Getty)
Asked why there wasn’t going to be a military parade, Lib Dem Councillor Caroline Smith-Wright replied: “We have decided at this point to enable communities to come together and have street parties and I think that is for the community, that is for everyone, that encompasses everybody – it doesn’t just leave the elite and people to just, kind of, parade.
“This is about normal people celebrating in their communities, bringing people together, sharing food, sitting at a table, celebrating and I think that’s a fine way to celebrate VE Day.”
Mr Reed called her statement “gobsmacking”. Drawing on his own experiences, he said: “It is one of the privileges of my life to serve in the Royal Marines before entering Parliament. I know first-hand how important these events for our veterans are.
“That this party was denied for being too ‘elitist’ is gobsmacking. These parades give a moment to celebrate those who were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for us. Above all, they are there to bring the whole community together.”
Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, labelled the council’s stance as “tone deaf”.
He said: “It’s no surprise that Lib Dem-run Dacorum Council has capitulated to woke ideology by refusing to honour those who fought and died for our country.
“Dismissing patriots who wish to commemorate those who paid the ultimate sacrifice as ‘elite’ isn’t just tone deaf – it’s a shameful betrayal of Britain’s war heroes. Lib Dems should hang their heads in shame.”
Brits across the UK celebrate with parades and street parties (Image: Getty)
The Lib Dems lost overall control of the council late last year after another controversy when eight female councillors resigned from the group accusing it of “failing to deal with allegations of bullying and harassment, including sexual harassment”.
Conservative Graeme Elliot expressed his “dismay” over the lack of a parade. “My father fought in that war,” he said. “I had an uncle who died in the Battle of France. That was the golden generation. So you think 50 years of a council is far more important than the men and women who gave their lives?”
Mr Elliot referenced the council’s lavish “50 Fest” celebrations last year, where a parade was held to mark the council’s 50th anniversary.
Labour councillor Pete Hannell joined the calls for reconsideration, urging the Lib Dems to honour the “sacrifices” made.
Independent councillor Jan Maddern said “we should do better”, pointing to the missed opportunity of officially celebrating the 75th anniversary of VE day due to Covid.
She also highlighted the funding allocated for decorations during the Royal wedding, noting the contrast to the lack of funding for the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
In response to the backlash, Ms Smith-Wright said: “I do appreciate and understand everyone’s strong feelings. As far as street parties go, we invite residents to sign up to have their road closed – that’s an immense expense. It costs thousands to shut a road for a street party, it’s free currently.”
Cllr Sally Symington, new Lib Dem leader of Dacorum Council, is looking to overturn the decision following her appointment. She said: “I am deeply proud of our community’s role in the Allied victory in Europe eighty years ago, and in our armed forces heritage. That’s why 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.”
A spokesman from Dacorum Borough Council said: “The Council has a long and proud history of supporting commemorative events and our armed forces community.
“We are pleased to confirm that the Council will be holding a joint commemorative event with the Royal British Legion (RBL) on the 8th of May (VE Day) to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth, as well as encouraging street parties across the borough through free street closures over the May Bank Holiday weekend.
“In addition to this, the Council is delivering an Armed Forces Day event in June, a commemorative event for VJ Day in August, our annual Remembrance Service and Parade on the 9th of November, and Remembrance Day event on the 11th of November 2025. “These days are important reminders of the sacrifices made by millions of people around the world to bring peace and freedom to future generations”.
