GINGERBREAD MEN have been renamed gingerbread persons at the Scottish Parliament in a bid to reduce sexism within Holyrood.
The parliament’s coffee shop made the change after research revealed over 30 per cent of female ministers had been on the receiving end of some form of sexual harassment.
As a result, gingerbread men have been renamed amid concerns the traditional name could cause offence.
The tasty treats have been replaced by gingerbread persons amid fears that the traditional name caused offence.
A tradition festive favourite with children, Holyrood will now stock gingerbread persons as part of an increased focus on gender neutrality.
The Scottish Parliament is hoping the move will foster a more inclusive working environment for female and non-binary staff.
Why are they ALL ginger? Racist.
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) December 18, 2018
However, the move has attracted widespread criticism amid accusations it "trivialises" the serious issue of sexism in the workplace.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Scottish Conservative Equalities spokesman Annie Wells slammed the move.
"Surely the Scottish Parliament has got better things to do than worry about what to call gingerbread men?" she said.
"This is an utterly pointless gesture which simply trivialises the real issues of gender equality."
Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan also hit out at the rebrand on Twitter, with comedian Ricky Gervais also poking fun at the idea.