SOME social media user have accused a job advert tweeted by the Redditch MP of being 'discriminatory'.

Rachel Maclean is looking for a new researcher and says she is "especially keen" to hear from people with "non-traditional diverse backgrounds" - from BAME to care leavers.

She said on Twitter: "Do you love politics and want a career at the heart of Westminster?

"I'm hiring for a policy caseworker and I'm especially keen to hear from applicants with non traditional diverse backgrounds, either BAME, career returners, care leavers, etc.

"I'm also especially interested in people who love politics but don't have a traditional background of political connections, or formal qualifications, but want to learn and contribute to our great nation's democracy."

However, hundreds of Twitter users responded to the tweet with some criticising her advert for 'racial profiling' and 'virtue signalling'.

One user replied and said: "Positive discrimination, is discrimination. Should always be the best person for the job, regardless of who they are. Not good."

Another said: "Why would you specifically mention BAME, which by inference discriminates against non BAME. This should be an equal opportunity position open to all with the right skills, experience or attributes, BAME or non BAME, irrespective of ethnicity."

Another said: "This just looks like you're racial profiling."

In defence of Mrs Maclean's tweet, one user said: "I thought this was great. Many of the responses are shameful.

"The party and country needs diversity of thought and hope you find and nurture a future star who didn’t do PPE at Oxford."

Based in London, the part-time policy caseworker/researcher job will see one successful candidate assisting the MP in writing correspondence and attending meetings.

Applicants will be expected to assist with policy casework, and progress as required, have an excellent command of the English language, in verbal and particularly written skills, attend and participate in meetings as appropriate, take notes and provide a summary and be sympathetic to the Conservative Party aims.

All applicants are required to submit a CV and Covering Letter via email to Rachel Maclean's Office Manager - Rebekah Davis, at rebekah.davis@parliament.uk

The closing date for applications is Tuesday June, 30 and candidates will be shortlisted for an initial interview by July 13 - with a view to start on September 1.