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A transformation has taken place in the Scottish landscape.

The saltire, traditionally supported by pro-independence groups, has currently been waved for a separate purpose.

Across the country, the azure and white of Saint Andrew is flying from poles and being displayed with the Union Jack at anti-immigration protests.

Previously those two standards were usually spotted on different sides of the discussion regarding Scotland's future.

Now the display of the saltire is sparking disagreement of its own at demonstrations from Perth to Aberdeen and from Glasgow to Falkirk.

Clashing Patriotisms

This conflict for the Scottish flag is furthermore a struggle concerning what it represents to be a loyal citizen in today's Scotland - a struggle among clashing national identities.

Key Figures

A leading figure is one of the prominent figures in these current demonstrations.

He blends opposition to independence and migration with sharp criticism of the national party.

They appropriated the Scottish flag as their own and for many years we've let them to use it as a weapon of division and hostility.

Opposing Demonstrations

The assembly - separated from many alternative rally participants by a line of police officers - supported the condemnation of the SNP.

The nationalists have created chaos on the country, dismantling our prosperity and our potential at every turn.

Border Control Debates

Border control is a persistent problem for the current Prime Minister and seems to be increasing up the schedule ahead of the Scottish government elections.

The channel crossing issue and the housing of refugees in hotels have triggered rallies around the UK.

Regional Opinions

A demonstrator, who gave his name as Mark, held a Union Jack showing "Stop the Boats".

He claimed government should be repairing failing government services, not spending taxpayers' money on medical treatment for migrants.

Opposing Views

Near the accommodation a gathering of alternative activists, including numerous union members, had assembled.

Additionally they were critical of the PM – but for different reasons.

Budgetary Issues

The opposing groups appear to share a sense of disgust about the nation's weak finances and the bad condition of public services.

The actual problem in contemporary Britain is the political leaders who fail to confront these problems head on.

Housing Crisis

One recurring complaint among protesters is about the quantity of immigrants being sheltered through taxpayer money.

The situation is particularly severe in Glasgow, which has the Britain's largest quantity of asylum seekers in public housing.

Symbolic Meaning

Shawn, a migrant residing in north Glasgow, believes the saltire usually represents peace, harmony and inclusion.

However he states it is currently being displayed "by right-wing groups and racism".

Public Effect

Arguments over emblems are not only occurring in large Scottish municipalities and industrial communities.

In the prosperous Renfrewshire village of the Weir Bridge area, the hoisting of saltires has led to a row on the local Facebook group.

Policy Ramifications

The Scottish leader the SNP leader said arguments about immigration were being "fanned by a wider debate" going on in the UK and around the globe.

I believe in a Scottish society that is accepting, hospitable and embracing.

Voting Possibilities

Research before the Scottish parliamentary election suggest a significant advantage for the SNP.

No matter what banners are shown by whichever party in the campaign, border control looks set to take its place alongside the financial system and government resources as a big issue.