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The Blue Ensign The Blue Ensign in it's plain undefaced form is a prestigious alternative to the British merchant fleets Red Ensign granted by authority of a warrant issued by the secretary of state for defence to Royal Navy Reserve officers in command of British merchant ships and fishing vessels . Some Yacht clubs that almost always have a royal prefix to their names are also allowed to fly it. The blue ensign began life in the 17th century when it was the flag of the Royal Navy's Blue squadron .. a white and red one also existed. This system ended in 1864 and the red ensign was used for merchant ships only, and the blue ensign for those entitled to them. All ships and boats in public service, Police, Customs, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary etc carry blue ensigns defaced with a badge of their own. This also applies to many former colonies like Australia and New Zealand , along with UK overseas territories. With the decline of Britain's merchant marine it is becoming a rare sight on the high seas. Further reading.... CRW Flags blue ensign 12 x 16 inch acrylic on canvas Available £150.oo Blue Ensign as evening greeting.... http://www.seawitchartist.com/ensign-evening.htm
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