Marks and Spencer removed union flag carrier bags from its Sprucefield store in County Down after nationalist shoppers complained. The bags had been distributed there by mistake instead of countryside-themed ones intended for Northern Ireland stores.

The retailer introduced four regionally themed paper bags-for-life in 2024 to replace plastic bags. These cost 40p, hold up to 15kg, resist water and can be recycled. Designs use produce to form national symbols for England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland. Northern Ireland's 12 food halls use a countryside theme due to local sensitivities.

DUP MP Carla Lockhart contacted M&S and accused it of yielding to pressure. She noted union flag bags remain on sale in London stores. Lockhart called the flag the national symbol of the United Kingdom, of which Northern Ireland forms a part.

UUP leader Jon Burrows stated Northern Ireland belongs to the United Kingdom and the union flag represents that. He said businesses should offer choice, such as bags without the union flag.

Shadow Secretary of State Alex Burghart asked M&S if it plans to remove union flags from food products and what pressure led to the bag withdrawal.

The retailer confirmed to reporters last week that the union jack bags were sent in error and have been withdrawn from the store.