Jim, as this discussion is asking the question about the UK, like it or lump it, Norn Iron is still regarded as part of the UK, so it of course falls within the parameters of this discussion. That being the case, who in their right mind, would wish to spoil a perfectly good gathering by wanting to sing a national anthem in a mixed community in the heart of Belfast?

I remember finding myself at an Ulster Scots concert in Derry one night ... { long story, don't ask! :-) } Anyway, they'd asked three musicians over from Scotland to headline the whole night. These guys were in full highland dress & played Pipes, Fiddle etc & they went down a storm. Anyway, as is the habit at such events, Politics has to rear its ugly head at the end of the night at least, if not before, so 'The Queen' was announced to end the night & all stood up ...... except of course the 3 Scots guys, who firmly kept seated, mumbling at their table about how they would certainly not be standing for no F'in Queen!

Another sad end! :-(

Jim, the West of Ireland is like another planet, compared to so many ares of the North, certainly throughout the troubles. For example, how many innocent women & children were murdered & maimed in Co Clare, during the Troubles, by all the loyal & noble freedom fighters on both sides?
So what was common practice down there, was certainly not the case up here. Your freedom of expression is all very noble & grand, but you should try it out in the wrong ares of the North & see how long your nose remains straight!

These heroic types who hide behind their Guitars & make like they can change all the political wrongs of our World with their wee provocative songs, don't have to pick up the pieces of young children blown to pieces by the latest bombing outrage!

I find these guys almost as nauseating, as those Rock Stars & Hollywood Actors who suddenly find politics, ..... usually when their careers are starting to flag!

Cheers
Dick