UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting Labels Reform MP Sarah Pochin's Advertising Comments Racist

Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin sparked controversy after stating that it "drives me mad" to see advertisements "full of black people, full of Asian people," claiming they do not represent British society and that white people are underrepresented. Pochin apologized for her remarks, describing them as "phrased poorly" and attributing her comments to concerns over the advertising industry's focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). However, Health Secretary Wes Streeting condemned her statements as "racist" and a return to "1970s, 1980s-style racism," criticizing both Pochin and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage for the lack of a strong rebuke. Streeting emphasized the need to confront and call out racism, highlighting the diverse contributions to British society from various ethnic and faith communities. The Liberal Democrats called for Pochin's suspension from Reform UK, underscoring the political backlash. The debate centers on representation in media and the boundaries of discussing diversity without fostering exclusion or racism.