It's one of the most commonly asked questions in the world of flags: should you call it the Union Jack or the Union Flag? The debate has rumbled on for centuries, and you'll find passionate opinions on both sides. Here's what the evidence actually says.
The national flag of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland combines three heraldic crosses:
- The Cross of St George (red cross on white) — representing England
- The Cross of St Andrew (white diagonal cross on blue) — representing Scotland
- The Cross of St Patrick (red diagonal cross on white) — representing Ireland
Wales is not separately represented, as Wales was already united with England under the Crown when the flag was first created in 1606.
So Which Name Is Correct?
The short answer: both are correct.
The term Union Flag is often considered the more technically precise name, as it refers to the flag of the Union — the United Kingdom. Some flag purists argue that the Union Jack should only be used when the flag is flown from the jack staff of a Royal Navy vessel at sea.
However, the Flag Institute — the UK's leading authority on flags — has confirmed that both names are equally acceptable in all contexts. This view is also supported by historical usage: the term Union Jack has been in common use since at least the early 18th century, both at sea and on land.
In 1902, a House of Commons committee concluded that the terms Union Jack and Union Flag are synonymous, and that either may be used officially.
Where Does the Name "Jack" Come From?
The origin of Jack is itself debated. Theories include:
- A reference to King James I (Jacques in French), under whose reign the flag was first created in 1606
- A derivation from the jack staff — the small flagpole at the bow of a ship
- A general nautical term for a flag flown from a ship's bow
None of these theories has been definitively proven, which only adds to the flag's fascinating history.
How to Fly It Correctly
Whichever name you use, flying it correctly matters. The Union Flag is not symmetrical — it has a right way up and a wrong way up. The broader white diagonal stripe of the Cross of St Andrew should always be uppermost on the side nearest the flagpole. Flying it upside down is considered a signal of distress — and an embarrassing mistake on any other occasion.
Our View
Here at Flag and Bunting Store, we're proud members of the Flag Institute, and we use both terms — just as the experts do. What matters most to us is that the flag is flown with pride, flown correctly, and made to the highest quality standards.
Ready to fly yours? Shop our Union Flags — available in a range of sizes, materials, and finishes to suit every occasion.