New Years' Honours List Lacks Politicians

It's New Years, which means the great and good of Britain are scouring the London Gazette looking to see if their name is on the Honours List, and if so exactly which bauble HM the Queen has seen fit to bestow. Once again, the first person singular has been left off, but one blames that on this journal's less-than-glowing view of the government of the day. And said government won no trinkets either.

In fact, the biggest awards have gone to the actor Patrick Stewart (best known as Captain Picard in "Star Trek: The Next Generation") and geriatric rockers Status Quo. Sir Patrick joins a long like of actors with a "K." Meanwhile, Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi, the Quo's surviving members, were appointed OBE. The historical minded will recall that when the Beatles got the same prize, many crusty old Brits sent their medals back. How times change.

Of course, the sporting world always gets a few royal nods, and this year was no different. Ian McGeechan (clearly a Scot) coached the English rugby team on their recent tour of South Africa, and is now Sir Ian. Jenson Button, the Formula 1 Driver (really, driving a car is a sport? What about riding a bus? Waiting for a Metro?) and gymnast Beth Tweddle are now Members of the British Empire.

Whereas no fewer than 121 Members of Parliament have decided not to return to the House after the coming election, the universe of potential political awards was huge. Yet not a one got even a plastic decoder ring. The Cabinet Office refused to say whether that was due to no one asking for one or whether applicants were rejected. The big missing name is Tony Blair, who more than 2 years after leaving office is still just a "mister."

Most illuminating is the almost complete absence of people in finance. Usually, various financiers get awards on the understanding that, when leading politicians are forced to resign, a directorship or two will get thrown their way. This year, though, it would be hard to justify such. Only Dyfrig John, the former boss at HSBC, received appointment as CBE. His distinction? His bank did not need any taxpayer money. Well done.

For those who are disappointed, the Birthday list is just around the corner. It would be wise, though, to start being nice to the Tories, because David Cameron's crowd will be putting that list together.

© Copyright 2010 by The Kensington Review, Jeff Myhre, PhD, Editor. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent. Produced using Ubuntu Linux.

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