Red Duster
F1. Maritime HistoryDefinition
Nickname for the British Merchant Navy red ensign.
Red Duster is the affectionate British nickname for the Red Ensign, the red flag with the Union Flag in the canton that is the proper national colors of British-registered merchant ships and the British Merchant Navy. Its use is set by the Merchant Shipping Act 1995, which requires UK-registered ships to wear it; defaced versions identify particular fleets and yacht clubs. The ‘duster’ tag reflects sailors’ familiarity with the flag rather than any disrespect.
Source: Merchant Shipping Act 1995 (UK), Part I, on the proper national colors (Red Ensign) of British merchant ships.