PRESS RELEASE: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Rt Hon. Penny Mordaunt has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for Political and Public Service.
We are delighted that long-term friend, supporter and winner of the LGBT+ Conservatives Ally of the Year, the Rt Hon. Dame Penny Mordaunt DBE has been awarded a damehood by His Majesty the King.
The Rt. Hon. Dame Penny Mordaunt DBE has been a long-supporter and much loved Conservative by our members. Dame Penny has achieved so much, as a Tory backbencher, or in the several senior ministerial roles that she held.
Responding to the damehood announced in today's Gazette, Chairman of the LGBT+ Conservatives Luke Robert Black MBE said: "Dame Penny is known, of course, most known for the iconic role that she played in the coronation of His Majesty the King Charles III. We all, whether Conservative or not, looked on at Dame Penny, positively gushing with pride and admiration. This moment in time captures Dame Penny perfectly: astutely patriotic, a proud Tory and someone who has always dedicated herself and her talents to public service. It was therefore truly fitting to see her have this historic role as we marked the beginning of the Caroleon Era"
"For those of us at the LGBT+ Conservatives, it is impossible to truly capture all of the fantastic support, guidance and inspiration that Dame Penny has given us over the many years of her service both as a Conservative backbencher and as a Conservative Minister. Dame Penny is the best of our party and, although away from the green benches (at least for now) continues to inspire our members. Thank you for everything that you do for us, for the Conservative Party, our Sovereign and our country".
Responding to the damehood announced in today's Gazette, Deputy Chairman of the LGBT+ Conservatives, Cllr Jamie Mulhall responded by saying: "Dame Penny's unwavering support for LGBT+ Conservatives over her distinguished career as an MP has been truly remarkable and deeply appreciated. Her presence and contributions have undoubtedly strengthened our association and the wider Conservative party, with her incredible Grace,Charisma and charm. The recognition through this honour is thoroughly deserved for her dedicated public service and her historic role at the Coronation".
Responding to the honour announced in today's Gazette, Vice Chairman for Outreach Cllr Alex Clarkson said: ‘With typical grace, Dame Penny has commented how grateful she is and that none of what she achieved could have been done without the help of others. I say it is us that should be grateful. Her steadfast support for LGBT+ Conservatives was unshakeable throughout her 14 years as an MP. She supercharged the Conservative Party with her conviction and her energy - I love hearing her speak at Conference. I think her historic national role at the Coronation as Lord Chancellor also helped define the early years of this Carolean Era - it’s only fitting the King has made her a Dame Commander.’
