New and updated licences will now depict the UK flag, transport minister Claire Perry has announced. The Union Jack will be shown along with the EU flag, which has featured on photocard licences since their introduction in 1998.

Ms Perry said: “People in this country rightly take pride in our national flag, which is why I am delighted it will now be displayed on British driving licences.”

This is just the latest in a raft of updates to vehicle licensing in the UK announced in recent months. Tax discs have already been abolished, with the paper counterparts to licences set to follow on June 8th 2015. It is now possible to pay vehicle tax online, with a direct debit option available.

It has also been made much cheaper to apply for a driving licence online.

The change will apply to new licences issued in England and Wales, and those updated due to a change in details.