Sir Lindsay Hoyle says all former prime ministers should be given the honour because it is 'one of the toughest jobs in the world'.
The honour from the Queen has regularly been given to former occupants of Number 10, including most recently Sir John Major, who was PM from 1990 to 1997.They are usually announced on St George's Day in April, but the monarch can pick any other point in the year.
The honour is for life, unless a Knight or Lady Companion offends against certain"points of reproach". The Garter is awarded by the monarch for outstanding public service and achievement and was founded in 1348 by Edward III. Reacting to the news, Sir Tony said it was an"immense honour", adding:"It was a great privilege to serve as prime minister and I would like to thank all those who served alongside me, in politics, public service and all parts of our society, for their dedication and commitment to our country."
Some were critical of the award, citing the legacy of his decision to join the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 - based largely around the false belief that the regime of Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction - as rendering him unsuitable for a knighthood.Related Topics
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