Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what criteria are used to determine (1) appointment as MBE, and (2) award of the British Empire Medal.

As is the practice of previous Governments, we do not normally comment on such inquiries.

The honours committees have adopted the following indicative guidelines as to the criteria for assessing the award of MBEs and BEMs:

Member of the British Empire (MBE)

Achievement or service in and to the community which is outstanding in its field and has delivered sustained and real impact which stands out as an example to others.

British Empire Medal (BEM)

Achievement or contribution of a very “hands-on” service to the community in a local geographical area. This might take the form of sustained commitment in support of very local charitable and/or voluntary activity; or innovative work that has delivered real impact but that is relatively short (three to four years) in duration.