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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Letters

HISTORICAL FACTS: Who gives a stuff about an oxford comma we all should - Caught on Camera

Thérèse Coffey, centre, outside No 10 Downing Street
Thérèse Coffey. ‘When communicating on a matter as vital as health, avoiding confusion should be paramount,’ writes Ross McQueen. Photograph: Tayfun Salcı/Zuma Press Wire/Rex/Shutterstock

Thérèse Coffey’s leaked memo to staff has resurrected an old debate about the Oxford comma (Coffey urges staff to be positive, be precise, and not use Oxford commas, 15 September).

As a clear writing coach, I am often asked for my advice on the Oxford comma. It is always this: if one will aid the clarity of your sentence, you should use it. If it will not, then leave it out.

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