Memorandum by Mr Matthew Harvey (HON 44)
1. The majority of honours are given to
"state servants". While it is right that these people
should be recognised for good work, this should not be part of
the national honours system. "State servants" should
be awarded within their departments by their relevant superiors
in the same way that private companies award outstanding employees
("employee of the year" etc).
2. The honours system will gain much in
the way of credibility and respectability if it is removed from
the personal control of the Prime Minister ("it remains his
List". Wilson Review). While an award from the Prime
Minister might be relevant to those who view him as their boss
(see point 1.), to the majority of the population it is a gift
soured by some political motivation.
February 2004
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