Memorandum by C J Simpson (HON 50)
The following are my views alone, and do not
represent any group opinion or such.
My starting point is that, if it were a choice
between the present system or none at all, I would plump for the
latter. Knighthoods, at least, must go.
By and large, I find it easier to identify those
areas for which honours should not be considered. I work on the
basis that folk do not perform their jobs or interests—however
altruistically—with an honour in mind (although, I strongly
suspect that some do so!), and that success in those jobs or interests
is its own reward.
I would exclude those who are honoured simply
because they have achieved a certain rank in the military, and
in the public and civil services. A sort of "Buggins' turn".
Who, if anyone, was the last Major-General not to receive the
usual?
It might break a few of the hearts of the first
lot of Buggins to "go without", but the legislators
would have to be decisive.
Also, people who have succeeded in their profession
(business or entertainment) or sport through natural ability—and
reaped the rewards thereof. Honours should not be given just for
being good at something—World Cup winners, Olympic medallists,
or not Yes, it always says "for services to . . .",
but one does wonder sometimes.
Oh, and parliamentarians "for services
to the party". Speakers of the House excepted.
So, who are we left with?
Well, there are the personal honours granted
by the monarch, and those folk who have put themselves out in
the interests of others, and over a substantial period. Putting
your hand in your pocket, however deep (think "widow's mite"),
should not be sufficient.
Regarding this last, I can see that there is
a case for generous anglophils (and their equivalents for the
other parts of the UK). These could come within the monarch's
gift.
Of course, it is possible for "the great
and the good" to bestride these limitations, but it should
be exceptional, not almost routine. An excellent example of what
I mean would be Frankie Vaughn (the singer—some of the committee
will, not doubt, remember him) who did a tremendous amount for
the Association of Boys' Clubs (I have not connection!).
Go to it, Committee. Tradition is all well and
good—in its place—but, be bold!
February 2004
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