Esther McVey, once dubbed the “minister for common sense,” found herself in an awkward spot on BBC Politics Live. The Tory MP committed two mistakes in quick succession when discussing diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI)—and it didn’t go unnoticed.
First Mistake: Mixing Up the Acronym
McVey voiced her support for US President Donald Trump’s move to scrap DEI schemes, enthusiastically championing something she called “MEA—merit, excellent and intelligence.” Trouble is, the acronym is actually MEI (merit, excellence, and intelligence). McVey didn’t appear to realise her error and pressed on, stating:
“You should have the best person for the job… so I would move on—DEI in the past.”
Second Mistake: The Rainbow Lanyard Ban
BBC presenter Jo Coburn pointed out McVey’s past efforts to ban civil servants from wearing rainbow lanyards (symbols of LGBTQ+ support) while she served as “minister for common sense” in the last government. McVey clarified that she meant to ban all politically charged lanyards, but this only reignited debate over inclusivity in the public sector.
“I had said we wouldn’t have any… so people wearing Palestinian ones or LGBTQ ones—just no lanyard,” McVey explained.
Critics say such bans eliminate visible support for marginalised groups, contradicting the very notion of inclusivity McVey was addressing.
A Slip or a Trend?
Though McVey framed her stance as championing “the best person for the job,” her confusing acronym slip and previous clampdown on rainbow lanyards didn’t exactly scream “common sense” to some observers. With DEI under scrutiny at home and abroad, these gaffes might undermine her own message.
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