Esther McVey, a British politician, has expressed criticism of an initiative by West Midlands Police encouraging non-Muslim officers to participate in fasting during Ramadan. The event, organized by the Association of Muslim Police, aims to promote workplace solidarity and inclusion by helping colleagues understand the physical and mental discipline associated with the Islamic holy month.

Senior officers within West Midlands Police have endorsed the initiative, suggesting it fosters greater empathy and cultural awareness among staff. They believe that participating in the fast can contribute to a more cohesive work environment and support diversity efforts within the force.

However, McVey described the program as unnecessary and dismissed it as a form of "virtue signalling." She called on the police force to prioritize traditional policing duties such as public safety and crime prevention over activities she sees as politically driven or symbolic gestures.

The initiative occurs amid broader debates on how public institutions engage with cultural and religious diversity. Advocates argue that such efforts help build understanding and respect among personnel with different backgrounds, while critics question their practical impact and relevance to core organizational responsibilities.

West Midlands Police has not issued a formal response to McVey’s remarks. The association behind the Ramadan fasting initiative continues to emphasize its goal of enhancing mutual respect and teamwork within the police service.