Some number plates are now appearing with a symbol in a blue section on the left-hand edge of the plate. Often it's the circle of yellow stars symbol of the controversial political project called the European Union.
These are appearing because the dealers for some car makes have been directed to automatically fit them to new cars. It's also being said by some dealers and car accessory stores that having this style of plate means you don't have to slap a 'GB' sticker on your car if you take it abroad. But this isn't completely accurate.
All you actually need on your plate to dodge the eyesore white sticker are the letters, like 'GB'. Polls show many people have strong objections to the EU and what its yellow stars flag represents. The risk with displaying this symbol is that your number plate could easily be assumed to be a deliberate political gesture in support of the EU. As with any political symbols, that might attract the attention of campaigners with strongly held alternative views.
It's also perfectly legal and far less politically controversial to have a national symbol above the 'GB'. But no other symbols, like football club or car manufacturer emblems, are allowed for road use.
If buying a new car, make sure the dealer doesn't slap the EU political symbol on your car without asking you - request a plain plate or the national symbol of your choice.
