51�Թ�

But Mrs Chilazi also says there are genuine issues with many DEI programmes, adding that the most common programmes - including diversity and unconscious bias training and employee resource or affinity groups - are often the least effective.

Websites for Meta’s unconscious bias training and TechPrep, a resource hub for underrepresented people and their parents to learn about computer science, are no longer online.

The order also instructs agencies to develop a strategy to eliminate classroom instruction on gender identity, referred to as "gender ideology," as well as "unconscious bias" and "white privilege," arguing that the concepts erode critical thinking and undermine "national unity."

"That is the power of unconscious bias," said Bohnet, who co-wrote a book called "Make Work Fair" about redesigning the workplace using data.

Mr Farooq, from Birmingham, was not shortlisted for interview and later claimed "unconscious bias" against his British Asian heritage meant he was not taken seriously.