A Labour MP mocked Nigel Farage over the Reform UK leader’s debunked claim that “diversity, equity and inclusion” (DEI) schemes cost the government £7 billion a year.
Adam Thompson took aim at the right-winger at prime minister’s questions (PMQs) in the Commons.
He asked: “Can I ask what this government is doing to improve people’s maths skills after they have left school.
“I came across an awful case the other day – a 61-year-old man who believed he’s counted up to £7 billion of government spending when there was really only £27 million.
“What can we do for people like the leader of Reform UK, who evidently can’t add up?”
That was a reference to Farage’s claim that scrapping DEI schemes would save taxpayers £7 billion a year.
It later emerged that the actual amount spent by the civil service on those schemes in 2022/23 was just £27.1 million.
Labour MPs laughed and shouted “more” at Thompson’s jibe while Farage could be seen sitting grim-faced on the benches opposite.
Replying for the government, deputy prime minister Angela Rayner said: “Reform’s sums simply don’t add up.”
