British honours system

British honours system
Country	United Kingdom
Founder	Monarch of the United Kingdom
Related	Order of the Garter, Order of the Thistle, Order of the Bath

British honours system. The system of orders, decorations, and medals in the United Kingdom is a complex hierarchy of awards recognising valour, achievement, and service. Historically rooted in the chivalric orders of the Middle Ages, it has evolved significantly, particularly during the reign of Queen Victoria and the 20th century. Today, it encompasses a wide range of honours, from the ancient Order of the Garter to modern gallantry awards like the George Cross, administered through the Cabinet Office and His Majesty's Government.

Overview and history

The origins of the system lie in the medieval military orders of knighthood, with the Order of the Garter, founded by Edward III in 1348, being the oldest and most senior. The Tudor period saw the creation of new orders like the Order of the Bath, while the expansion of the British Empire under Queen Victoria led to a major reform and proliferation of awards to reward imperial service. The 20th century, through events like the First World War and the Second World War, prompted the establishment of numerous gallantry and campaign medals, shifting focus from primarily aristocratic recognition to broader public service. Key advisory bodies, such as the Political Honours Scrutiny Committee, were later established to maintain integrity.

Types of honours and awards

Honours are categorised primarily into orders of chivalry, gallantry awards, and service medals. The senior orders are the Order of the Garter, the Order of the Thistle (for Scotland), and the Order of the Bath. The most prominent order of merit is the Order of the British Empire, instituted by George V in 1917. For acts of bravery, the highest civilian award is the George Cross, while the Victoria Cross is the pre-eminent military honour for valour. Other significant designations include the Companion of Honour, the Royal Victorian Order, and a vast array of campaign medals issued for service in conflicts from the Crimean War to the War in Afghanistan.

Nomination and selection process

Nominations for most honours originate from government departments, the Armed Forces, and the public, coordinated by the Cabinet Office's Honours and Appointments Secretariat. Proposals are reviewed by specialist committees, such as those for Diplomatic Service or Health, before being scrutinised by the main Honours Committee. The Prime Minister then submits the final list to the Monarch of the United Kingdom for approval. Separate, personal gift systems exist, like the Royal Victorian Order, awarded at the sole discretion of the Sovereign. The process for military awards involves recommendations through the Ministry of Defence chain of command.

Investiture and ceremony

The formal awarding of honours typically occurs at an investiture ceremony, most often held at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, or the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The Sovereign or another senior member of the British royal family, such as The Prince of Wales, usually presides. Recipients are presented with their insignia, which may include a badge, star, or medal. Knights and Dames are touched on the shoulder with a sword in the ancient ceremony of dubbing. The events are organised by the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood and are steeped in tradition, often involving units like the Household Cavalry.

Contemporary issues and reforms

The system has faced criticism over perceived elitism, lack of diversity, and political patronage, leading to several reviews and reforms. The House of Commons Public Administration Select Committee has conducted inquiries, and changes have included making nomination forms more accessible and increasing transparency. Debates continue regarding the relevance of titles like knighthood and the proportion of awards going to figures from finance versus public service sectors like the National Health Service. The future of the system is periodically assessed in relation to the modern constitutional status of nations within the United Kingdom.

Notable recipients and examples

Recipients span fields from military heroism to arts and sciences. Renowned military figures include Douglas Haig, awarded the Order of the Bath, and Bernard Montgomery, who received the Order of the Companions of Honour. In science, Stephen Hawking was appointed a Companion of Honour, while Tim Berners-Lee was knighted. Influential artists like David Hockney and musicians such as Elton John have been named members of the Order of the British Empire. Historical figures like Winston Churchill and Florence Nightingale have been honoured, as have contemporary public servants like Captain Tom Moore, recognised for his fundraising during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Category:British honours system