An MP sparked outrage yesterday after it emerged she omitted the word ‘Christmas’ from her annual card to constituents.
Lib Dem Lorely Burt, 59, was accused of being too politically correct after the festive message ‘Happy Holidays’ dropped on doormats in Solihull, West Mids.
Angry constituents reacted furiously to the Americanism – and criticised Mrs Burt for omitting the Christian greeting.
The MP was yesterday forced into issuing a grovelling apology – but some locals remained annoyed by the card.
Amanda Higgs complained: “I would wish those who celebrate them a Happy Diwali, Hanukkah, Eid, Chinese New Year, to name a few celebrations, not Happy Holidays.
“Of course, unlike Lorely, I have no problem in wishing all a Merry Christmas.”
One pensioner said: “I feel offended. In my 66 years of living in this country, it is the first time I’ve seen our traditional Christmas card abandoned.
“I wonder which tradition we will be losing next.”
And Aminah Mehboob added: “I am shocked that she has employed an obviously American phrase, rather than a more British greeting.”
Facebook user Candy Morris complained: “Really angry every year i celerbrate CHRISTMAS i have just recived a card from Lorely Burt mp saying happy holidays how dare she belittle christmas as a christian i feel offended! (sic)”
Mrs Burt apologised for any offence caused – and claimed she had not deliberately chopped the traditional message from her card.
She said: “I am sorry if my Christmas card offended anyone, and I look forward to continuing to fight for improved local services in the New Year.
“I have no hesitation in wishing all my constituents a very Merry Christmas.
“This Christmas will be especially joyful for me, with the birth of my second grandchild and the news that double-crewed ambulances will soon return to Solihull following my recent campaign.”
