New flag ordinance

© FOTW Flag of the Reich authority on the sea, used 1926-1933

In the Weimar Republic the black-red-gold Reich flag is a very unpopular symbol of the new democratic order among those on the right wing of the political spectrum. On 5 May 1926, Reich President Paul von Hindenburg issues a new flag ordinance. He bases it for the most part on the ideas of Reich Chancellor Hans Luther. From then on German foreign representatives in European maritime trade ports and in ports outside Europe can also hoist the black-red-gold trade flag, which must also show the Reich colours in the upper corner. Democratically-minded forces in Germany react angrily. After tumultuous debates in the Reichstag over the new flag ordinance, the German Democratic Party (DDP) will petition on 12 May for a vote of no confidence against Reich Chancellor Luther. The petition is adopted with 177 to 146 votes. Although Luther resigns his office, the flag ordinance remains in effect.