When British House of Commons leader Andrea Leadsom was taking questions from fellow members recently, shadow leader Valerie Vaz "brought up the achievements of women, naming numerous famous figures who passed away this year," the Independent reported. When Vaz finished, Leadsom expressed her appreciation as well, and then said, "I would just add one other great Lady to that lovely list. And that's Jane Austen, who will feature on the new £10 note, which is one of our greatest living authors."
On Twitter, bookstore chain Waterstones couldn't resist the "greatest living author" miscue, quipping: "We are currently moving all our Jane Austen stock from Classics into Greatest Living Authors. Thanks Andrea Leadsom for the heads up." And: "Anyone know who Jane Austen's agent is? We'd love to book her for an event."