Replace the UK Honours System with an Independent Honours Commission


Replace the UK Honours System with an Independent Honours Commission
The Issue
The Honours System in the United Kingdom has a long history, dating back to medieval times. It is designed to recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to society. However, it has come under increased criticism for being outdated and not reflecting modern values. For instance, some argue that it disproportionately rewards politicians, civil servants and celebrities for simply "doing their day job" over ordinary citizens who meet the criteria of people who have gone "above and beyond to change the world around them for the better".
Furthermore, there have been instances where honourees have later been found guilty of serious crimes or misconduct, which raises questions about the current vetting process involved in selecting recipients.
I believe it is important to retain an honours system to recognise those who are "doing vital and extraordinary work across the country," but that the current system requires a radical overhaul to ensure its fairness and relevance in today's society. I believe the way to achieve this is for the Government to establish an Independent Honours Commission. The system should be free of political influence. As such, I recommend that the Prime Minister should be removed from the role of providing strategic direction for the honours system and that the "Prime Minister's List" should be renamed. I believe that by creating an Independent Honours Commission, the character and integrity of the honours system can be restored.
By signing this petition, you are supporting a call for the current Honours System to be replaced by an Independent Honours Commission. Please sign this petition if you agree that the UK's recognition system should be reformed so that it is:
- demonstrably fair, transparent and free from vested interest;
- fully reflects our diverse and evolving society;
- celebrates the people who have gone/ are going above and beyond to change our world for the better.

57,330
The Issue
The Honours System in the United Kingdom has a long history, dating back to medieval times. It is designed to recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to society. However, it has come under increased criticism for being outdated and not reflecting modern values. For instance, some argue that it disproportionately rewards politicians, civil servants and celebrities for simply "doing their day job" over ordinary citizens who meet the criteria of people who have gone "above and beyond to change the world around them for the better".
Furthermore, there have been instances where honourees have later been found guilty of serious crimes or misconduct, which raises questions about the current vetting process involved in selecting recipients.
I believe it is important to retain an honours system to recognise those who are "doing vital and extraordinary work across the country," but that the current system requires a radical overhaul to ensure its fairness and relevance in today's society. I believe the way to achieve this is for the Government to establish an Independent Honours Commission. The system should be free of political influence. As such, I recommend that the Prime Minister should be removed from the role of providing strategic direction for the honours system and that the "Prime Minister's List" should be renamed. I believe that by creating an Independent Honours Commission, the character and integrity of the honours system can be restored.
By signing this petition, you are supporting a call for the current Honours System to be replaced by an Independent Honours Commission. Please sign this petition if you agree that the UK's recognition system should be reformed so that it is:
- demonstrably fair, transparent and free from vested interest;
- fully reflects our diverse and evolving society;
- celebrates the people who have gone/ are going above and beyond to change our world for the better.

57,330
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Petition created on 14 January 2024