Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently released his resignation honours list, which includes 36 notable individuals recognized for their contributions during his time in office. The list is predominantly populated by former Conservative ministers alongside advisers who played pivotal roles in Sunak’s administration at No. 10 Downing Street. The honours bestowed upon these individuals cover a range of awards from prestigious peerages to various orders of merit.
### Peerages
Among those elevated to peerage, **Michael Gove** stands out, having held several cabinet roles across four administrations, such as minister for education, housing, and justice. Notably, Gove is now the editor of the Spectator magazine. Another name included in this distinguished category is **Mark Harper**, a former transport secretary and ex-chief whip for the Conservative Party. Similarly, **Simon Hart**, Rishi Sunak’s former chief whip and previous Wales secretary under Boris Johnson, has also received a peerage.
**Sir Alister William Jack** has also been honoured, having served as Scotland’s secretary under three prime ministers. In addition, **Stephen Massey**, who was the chief executive officer of the Conservative Party during Sunak’s leadership, and **Victoria Prentis**, who served as attorney general, have received recognition. The list further includes **Eleanor Shawcross**, a Conservative adviser who managed the No. 10 Policy Unit under Sunak’s leadership.
### Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG)
In a separate category, **Andrew Mitchell**, the former international development secretary, has been recognized with the title of Knight Commander. Mitchell also served as a significant figure in the Foreign Office during David Cameron’s administration and carried his experience into Sunak’s government.
### Dames Commander of the Order of the British Empire
Moving to other significant titles, **Theresa Villiers**, who held positions in rural affairs and Northern Ireland under two prime ministers, has been named a Dame Commander. She was a crucial proponent of Brexit and its various implications during her tenure.
### Knighthood
Several prominent figures have also been knighted. **James Anderson OBE**, who holds the all-time record for wickets taken for England, has received a knighthood, an honour that reflects not only his sporting prowess but also Sunak’s keen interest in cricket. Another notable recipient is **James Cleverly**, a former British Army soldier who served as foreign secretary and home secretary. **Jeremy Hunt**, who has occupied various influential cabinet positions such as chancellor and foreign secretary under Sunak, along with **Grant Shapps**, a key player in multiple cabinet roles, have all attained knighthood.
### Companion in the Most Honourable Order of the Bath (CB)
**Elizabeth Perelman**, who served as Sunak’s principal private secretary, is recognized as a Companion in this distinguished order, which highlights her significant contributions to the government during her tenure.
### Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George (CMG)
In the same spirit, **John Bew**, a foreign policy expert involved with three Conservative prime ministers, continues to advise key political figures including Sir Keir Starmer.
### Commanders, Officers, and Members of the Order of the British Empire
The honours list extends to awards such as the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), recognizing various figures, including **Nerissa Chesterfield**, former director of communications at No. 10, and **Eden Barnes**, who served as the head of events during Sunak’s government. Additionally, **Douglas McNeill**, who acted as Sunak’s chief economic adviser, and **Robin Trotter**, a former speechwriter for Sunak, have also earned their respective accolades.
### Conclusion
Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list paints a picture of a tightly-knit circle within the Conservative realm, celebrating a mix of seasoned politicians, dedicated advisers, and passionate advocates. Each individual listed has left their mark on the UK’s political landscape during Sunak’s administration, and this honours list serves to acknowledge their service and contributions in a manner reflective of their extensive experience and dedication.