RISHI Sunak has waded into the row over the new England football strip – saying the St George’s Cross should not be “messed with”.

The Prime Minister described the symbol as “perfect” and that he “prefers the original”.

The National:

Nike is under fire for its new design which has seen the English flag altered from a plain red cross to varying shades of red on the vertical bar while the horizontal bar becomes strips of purple, light blue and navy.

The company has said the new design includes a “playful update” on the cross designed to “unite and inspire,” while explaining the colours reference the training kit worn by England's 1966 World Cup winners.

READ MORE: Furious fans accuse Nike of 'plot to destroy England' after flag change

Sunak’s comments come after Labour leader Keir Starmer urged Nike to “reconsider” the change and reverse its decision.

The BBC reported on Friday the company have no plans to bow to politicians’ demands and will not alter the new design.

Speaking to reporters on a campaign visit, Sunak said: “When it comes to our national flags, we shouldn't mess with them because they're a source of pride, identity, who we are, and they're perfect as they are.”

Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer has said the changes are “not what fans want”, adding: “Our national heritage – including St George's Cross – brings us together. Toying with it is pointless and unnecessary.”

The shirts cost a whopping £124.99 for adults and £119.99 for children for the “authentic” version. A cheaper “stadium” version will fetch £84.99 and £64.99 for children.

Meanwhile, SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn has mocked the outrage from English politicians – referring to Diadora’s spin on the Scotland strip in 2007 which featured a baby blue cross on a white background.

He posted a picture of the team celebrating Scotland’s 0-1 win over France with the caption: “Remember when Diadora disrespected the Saltire and none of us celebrated beating France because of it.”