Now the Loony Right Turns Its Fire On the Poppy Appeal
Esther McVey and Laurence Fox are among those accusing the Royal British Legion (RBL) of being ‘woke’. The latest culture war in Britain targets the RBL, the organization behind the annual poppy charity appeal that supports military veterans, serving personnel, and their families.
Criticism from Prominent Figures
Former Tory minister Esther McVey expressed her anger on X, stating:
“Bought my poppy as I do every year… however, horrified to discover The Royal British Legion (RBL) has a Head of Diversity & Inclusion at a wage of about £65k – that’s a lot of poppies to sell just for that non-job wage! All the money should be going to veterans not on politically correct non-jobs.”
Laurence Fox also voiced his refusal to support the appeal this year:
“Haven’t bought a poppy yet this year… Can’t bring myself to contribute to the head of diversity, equity and inclusions salary. I refuse to support it.”
The Royal British Legion’s Position
The RBL defends the criticized role as essential for providing support to minority ethnic, LGBTQ+, and disabled veterans and active service members. This post helps reach those who might not seek help due to the mistaken belief that RBL’s services are not meant for them.
Despite this explanation, detractors like McVey and Fox dismiss the role’s importance based on their personal judgments.
Summary
The Royal British Legion faces backlash from certain right-wing figures who oppose its diversity initiatives, questioning how charity funds are allocated and undermining efforts to support all veterans.
Author’s summary: Controversy surrounds the Royal British Legion as critics challenge the value of diversity roles funded by the poppy appeal, overshadowing its core mission to help veterans.