Memorandum by Mr John Bender (HON 17)
I have read The House of Commons Public Administration
Select Committee's consultation paper on the British honours system
with great interest. I personally would not amend the structure
as it currently stands, believing that it effectively fosters
a culture of public service. I would in fact recommend making
greater use of the Sovereign's power to create hereditary titles,
which can no longer be considered constitutionally indefensible
with the expulsion of the hereditary peers from Parliament. An
honour bestowed to one's family is far more meaningful than conferring
a title merely for an individual's own personal glory. The continuance
of new hereditary creations, would ensure that our society remains
fluid and does not stagnate into an historically defined caste
system. It should be noted that hereditary honours are bestowed
regularly in Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Malaysia
and Monaco. Furthermore, the republics of Germany, France, Switzerland,
Finland and Italy explicitly allow the use of hereditary titles
as an integral part of one's legal name. This provision can be
found in Article 109 of the German Constitution (1919) for example.
These countries are modern and progressive in their outlook. The
United Kingdom is envied and respected by many for its rich history.
It should preserve its heritage and avoid the politically correct
proposals to abolish what is so much admired in other parts of
the world.
February 2004
|
