2 hours ago
Last Updated:February 11, 2026, 16:07 IST
The UK government changed its logo from "HM Government" to "UK Government," prompting Conservative criticism over tradition and Labour's monarchy views.
The British government is officially referred to as His Majesty's (HM) government, a reference to the monarch King Charles III. (Image: AP File)
The British government has been slammed from the right-wing politicians for opting a logo bearing “UK Government" branding instead of “His Majesty’s Government" in official communications.
The British government is officially referred to as His Majesty’s (HM) government, a reference to the monarch King Charles III. According to AFP, websites and other communications have previously carried a logo with “HM Government".
During the previous Tory government till 2024, the primary logo was the Royal Coat of Arms alongside “HM Government" and was meant to be used “unless there is a specific reason not to".
Earlier this week, a minister said that “a strategic decision has been made to adopt ‘UK Government’ as the primary branding for all public-facing communications".
In reply to a question at the Parliament, Nick Thomas-Symonds, the Paymaster General, said: “Since July 2024, guidance has been updated to reflect the new Royal Coat of Arms following the accession of His Majesty The King."
“A strategic decision has been made to adopt ‘UK Government’ as the primary identity for all public-facing communications," he added.
On Tuesday, some opposition Conservative politicians called it “disrespectful towards Britain’s history, culture, and constitutional settlement".
The Telegraph quoted the Conservatives denouncing the move as “disrespectful towards Britain’s history, culture, and constitutional settlement", claiming it raised “serious questions about Labour’s attitude towards the monarchy and the traditions that underpin public life in the United Kingdom".
“How typical that Labour should be trying to quietly obliterate tradition," said Tory politician Alex Burghart.
Greg Smith, the Tory shadow minister, said: “Yet another move from this shambolic Labour Government to undermine our constitution, history and traditions. The Government is His Majesty’s Government, and should firmly remain so – including in Government comms."
Defending the move, a government spokesperson said the step was taken to provide greater “clarity".
“It’s the right move and reflects their true purpose — serving the people not the powerful," anti-monarchy activist Graham Smith, who heads the pressure group Republic, told The Daily Telegraph newspaper.
She pointed out to the “falling" support for the monarchy since the latest release of Jeffrey Epstein files was released last month, which revealed ex-prince Andrew’s ties to the late sex offender.
Handpicked stories, in your inbox
A newsletter with the best of our journalism
Location :
London, United Kingdom (UK)
First Published:
February 11, 2026, 16:07 IST
News world UK Drops ‘His Majesty’ In Official Communications, Opposition Slams Starmer Govt
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Read More
