'Woke' workplaces accused of scrubbing Christmas from existence during festivities

But festive cheer appears not to have spread to all workplaces, as some have stepped back from the traditions.

In one example, HSBC told its branch staff they will not be able to wear Christmas jumpers this December.

It was feared the jolly seasonal knitwear might upset customers who are going through difficult times during the festive period.

Instead, bosses want their in-branch workers sticking to official uniform, insisting employees should look "serious, sensitive and smart" when dealing with the public.

The guidance was issued to staff across the bank's branches.

The policy comes after some customers complained that staff dressed in "Ho Ho Ho" outfits did not meet their expectations of professionalism.

A HSBC spokesman said: "We are encouraging colleagues to celebrate Christmas in branches in lots of different ways, including decorating branches, team celebrations and festive lunches.

"However, it’s important to also remember that branches are spaces where customers receive a range of specialist services that require professionalism and sensitivity.

"This year, we have asked colleagues in customer-facing roles not to wear Christmas jumpers to reflect this."

The DVLA meanwhile axed its free Christmas dinner for staff at its head offices in Swansea.

In previous years, the organisation has offered workers a voucher to be spent on the festive meal in the cafeteria.

But this year, the DVLA said in a leaked email to staff that the vouchers are "no longer available", citing "responsible use of taxpayers money", WalesOnline reports.

The email read: "A voucher solely for Christmas is not permitted, as this does not align with the principles of fairness and consistency.

"Vouchers previously issued for team Christmas lunches...are no longer available for this reason."

A DVLA spokesman said: “We offer a competitive salary with a special performance bonus scheme which includes vouchers.

"The rewards scheme for staff is part of a civil-service wide recognition scheme and we follow HM Treasury's pay remit guidance.”

Dr Philip Kiszely, senior fellow at think tank New Culture Forum, blamed "woke activists" for the "erasing of Christmas".

He told The Telegraph: "The sidelining and erasing of Christmas has been happening for a while, but I do think it is gathering pace.

"There are a handful of activists, in and outside companies, who complain and the companies or organisations cave immediately as that’s what they do with minority activists.

"I have a background in education and found the public sector full of people who will say ‘Let’s call Christmas the winter break’ or whatever," he added.

"It’s a tiny proportion of the public who really dislike Britain, the west, and Christianity, so this is down to extremely aggressive woke activists."