Union Jack to highlight public spending

Publicly-funded infrastructure projects, including roads, will be branded with a Union Jack plaque to recognise taxpayers' key contribution in funding vital projects.

On a visit to the south-west Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander will say that the flag plaques, which he developed jointly with Minister for the Cabinet Office Francis Maude, will brand major projects along the length and breadth of the UK.

The plaques are designed to recognise the UK taxpayer’s key contribution in funding vital infrastructure projects across the country.

With £466 billion of planned projects in the pipeline, the government has committed to publicly-fund a significant element, providing a crucial motor in re-starting economic growth.

Having established the National Infrastructure Plan in 2010, Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander (pictured) said: “I’ve prioritised infrastructure in this government because only long-term investments will support UK businesses and get the public finances and economy on a firm footing.

“It’s only right that we recognise the contribution of the UK taxpayer in supporting this economic growth, which is why I’m delighted to launch these Union Jack plaques, which will proudly adorn infrastructure investments from roads in Cornwall to broadband in Caithness.”

Minister for the Cabinet Office Francis Maude added: “As part of our long-term economic plan, this government is investing in our nation’s physical and digital infrastructure. Whether it’s High Speed 2 investment in the Northern Powerhouse or superfast broadband connecting Cornwall and Wales, all future infrastructure projects funded for by UK taxpayers will carry this simple UK flag branding.”