The Myth of Tony Blair Knighthood and the Real Process behind Honors

Many erroneous beliefs pervade the realm of British honors and traditions, none more perplexing than the notion that it was Tony Blair who knighted someone. The truth is far more intriguing and involves a complex committee governed by specific guidelines.

Who Can Knight People?

Contrary to the popular Quora riddle that suggests only the royal family can knight people, it is actually a member of the sovereign's council, typically the Prime Minister, who proposes such honors with the sovereign's approval. The Queen does indeed have the final say in conferring knighthoods, but the decision-making process and nominations come through a rigorous and committee-driven system.

The Process of Honors

The process for British honours is a lengthy and meticulous one, revolving around several key committees. These organize and evaluate numerous nominations, and the recommendations are submitted to the Crown for approval.

What Is the Knighthood Committee?

The committee in charge of recommending knighthoods is a crucial part of this process. Typically, this committee is headed by the Prime Minister, and its members are chosen for their expertise and understanding of the various sectors to which the honors are awarded. These may include academics, scientists, artists, and public figures who have made significant contributions to society.

Nomination and Evaluation

Nominations come from various sources, including members of the public, peers, and other recognized figures. Once received, these nominations are evaluated based on the criteria set by the committee, such as the individual's contributions to their field, public service, or lifelong dedication to their cause.

The Final Decision

Once the committee has gathered all its evaluations and recommendations, it submits these to the sovereign for final approval. It is important to note that while the Queen has the right to refuse any nomination, she typically defers to the committee's recommendation.

Notable Examples of the Process

Several notable figures have been honored with knighthoods, and the process has been well-documented. For instance, people like Sir Elton John, Sir Ian McKellen, and Sir Paul McCartney have all received their knightly titles through this structured process.

Tony Blair's Involvement

While Tony Blair, as Prime Minister, most certainly had the power to propose various knighthoods, it is essential to differentiate between his role in the honours process and the direct act of conferring knighthoods. Blair proposed numerous honours during his tenure, but the ultimate decision rested with the Queen after the committee's recommendations.

Conclusion

The mysterious quest to 'knock Tony Blair down for knighting someone' is a perfect embodiment of British tradition and the structured but intricate process behind the conferring of honours. Understanding the true process, from the role of the Prime Minister's committee to the final nod from the sovereign, highlights the complexity and importance of these symbols of recognition in British society.