We, concerned citizens, call upon our Prime Minister to compel Boris Johnson to provide a clear and justifiable explanation for his decision to award a peerage to his 29-year-old aide, Charlotte Owen detailing how her achievements merit her appointment as this country's youngest-ever peer. This decision raises serious questions about the integrity and fairness of the peerage system in our country, and specifically Mr Johnson's moral fitness to dictate such appointments.

1. Lack of Experience: The appointment of a 29-year-old with limited experience to such a prestigious position demands an explanation. It is crucial that Boris Johnson clarifies what qualifications and achievements led him to believe that Ms. Owen is deserving of this honor, which will allow her to play an important role, for the rest of her life, in the legislature of the United Kingdom.

2. Questionable Criteria: The process for awarding peerages should be transparent and based on merit rather than personal connections or political favoritism. We urge Boris Johnson to disclose the specific criteria used in this case and explain how Ms. Owen met those criteria.

3. Overlooking More Deserving Candidates: There are countless individuals who have dedicated their lives to public service or made significant contributions in various fields but have been overlooked for recognition by this decision. It is essential that Boris Johnson justifies why Ms. Owen was chosen over more experienced and deserving candidates, including senior public servants who might expect a lifetime of work and sacrifice to be recognised, at career's end, with a far less prestigious knighthood/damehood.

4. Impact on Public Trust: The awarding of peerages should inspire public confidence in our democratic institutions, not raise doubts about cronyism or nepotism within the government ranks. By providing a clear justification for his decision, Boris Johnson can help restore trust among citizens who expect fairness and transparency from their leaders.

We implore our present Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, to address these concerns promptly by insisting that Mr Johnson publicly justify his awarding of a peerage to Charlotte Owen based on her qualifications, achievements, and adherence to the established criteria. Transparency and accountability are vital in upholding the integrity of our democratic processes.

We, the undersigned, urge that Mr Sunak demand a comprehensive explanation for this decision, and if no satisfactory explanation be forthcoming, to overturn this appointment and take necessary steps to ensure fairness and transparency in all future peerage appointments. Our democracy depends on it.