The Royal Coat of Arms now used in Scotland show the lion of Scotland in the first and fourth quarters of the shield, with those of England in the second and the harp of Ireland in the third. The mottos 'In Defens' and Nemo me impune lacessit appear as in the original arms. (The Scots expression 'Wha Daur Meddle Wi' Me' is regarded as the root of the Latin motto, itself referring to the floral emblem of Scotland, the Thistle, which has sharp spikes at the tips of its leaves resulting in a painful sensation should they be handled without due respect, thus both the motto and insignia of The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle are retained in the current arms. Nemo me impune lacessit is also the motto of the Royal Regiment of Scotland). The sinister unicorn supporter is replaced by the Imperially crowned golden lion of England, who supports a lance displaying the flag of England. (The flag of Scotland replaces the banner of the arms supported by the dexter unicorn in the original version). ------------------------------------------------------------- Since the Union of the Crowns these Scottish quarterings have been used for official purposes in Scotland, for example, on official buildings and official publications. The Scotland Office uses a version of the Royal Coat of Arms as used in Scotland and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, RCAHMS and the General Register Office for Scotland use a version of the crest. ----------------------------------------------------------- The Royal Standard of Scotland, also known as the Lion Rampant, is the banner of the arms. It is now officially flown from Balmoral Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse when the Queen is not in residence. It is also used in an official capacity by the First Minister, Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Lord Lyon King of Arms and Lord Lieutenants in their Lieutenancies. Unofficially, it is commonly used as an alternative flag for Scotland most often seen on the terraces during football and rugby matches involving the Scottish national team. (The Scottish Football Association uses a logo based upon the Royal Arms).