Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood
The Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood, commonly referred to as the Central Chancery, serves as a specialized office within the Lord Chamberlain's department of the Royal Household of the Sovereign of the United Kingdom. This office plays a critical role in the maintenance of the UK's prestigious honors system, ensuring that the traditions of chivalry are upheld through meticulous administration.
While the Central Chancery is central to the process of honoring citizens, it is important to note its specific scope: the office does not handle the nominations or the final decisions regarding who receives an appointment. Instead, it focuses on the operational side, managing appointment procedures, organizing investitures (the formal ceremonies where honors are bestowed), and providing the physical insignia (the medals and badges) associated with the awards.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบKey Facts
- Established: April 1904 by King Edward VII.
- Purpose: Administration of orders of chivalry and general honors.
- Staff Size: A small team of eight staff members as of 2019.
- Leadership: Headed by a Secretary, assisted by an Assistant Secretary.
- Military Connection: Since 1931, the office has been held by active or retired Armed Forces officers.
History and Administrative Duties
The Central Chancery was created in April 1904 under the direction of King Edward VII. Its formation followed the recommendations of a 1902 committee tasked with reforming the administration of the honors system, replacing the fragmented, ad hoc arrangements that had previously existed.
The leadership structure has evolved over time. Since 1991, the Secretary of the Central Chancery has also served as the Assistant Comptroller to the Lord Chamberlain's Office. Additionally, the Secretary serves ex-officio as the registrar for both the Order of the British Empire and the Royal Victorian Order.
The role is deeply intertwined with military service. Since 1931, the position of Secretary has been filled by officers from the Armed Forces. A recent example of this prominence was seen during the 2023 Coronation, where the current secretary, Lt.Col. Stephen Segrave, led the contingent of gallantry award holders and representatives of the orders of chivalry in the Royal Procession.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบChronology of Secretaries
The following table outlines the individuals who have led the Central Chancery since the early 20th century, highlighting the consistent trend of military leadership since 1931.
| Secretary | Term of Office |
|---|---|
| Sir Francis Morgan Bryant CB CVO CBE ISO | 1916–1931 |
| Rear Admiral Philip John Hawkins Lander Row CB CVO | 1931–1932 |
| Commander Dudley Colles KCB KCVO OBE | 1932–1936 |
| Major Sir Henry Hudson Fraser Stockley KCVO OBE | 1936–1946 |
| Brigadier Sir Ivan de la Bere KCVO CB CBE | 1946–1960 |
| Major General Sir Cyril Harry Colquhoun KCVO CB OBE | 1960–1968 |
| Major General Sir Peter Bernard Gillett KCVO CB CBE | 1968–1979 |
| Major General Sir Desmond Hind Garrett Rice KCVO CBE | 1980–1989 |
| Lieutenant Colonel Sir Walter Ross GCVO OBE GCStJ DL | 1989–1991 |
| Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Charles McClure Mather CBE | 1991–1999 |
| Lieutenant Colonel Robert Guy Cartwright LVO | 1999–2005 |
| Lieutenant Colonel Sir Alexander Fergus Matheson, 8th Baronet LVO DL | 2005–2014 |
| Lieutenant Colonel James Vernon KCVO | 2014–2019 |
| Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Segrave | 2019–Present |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Central Chancery decide who receives a knighthood?
No. The Central Chancery does not deal with nominations or the decisions regarding appointments; it is responsible for the administration of the procedures and the delivery of the honors.
What are the primary responsibilities of the office?
The office administers appointment procedures, organizes investiture ceremonies, and provides the physical insignia for the orders of chivalry.
Who currently leads the Central Chancery?
The current secretary is Lt.Col. Stephen Segrave, who has held the position since 2019.
Why are military officers typically appointed as secretaries?
While the source does not state the specific reason for the requirement, it notes that the office has been held by retired and active duty officers of the Armed Forces consistently since 1931.
How large is the Central Chancery staff?
It is a small office, consisting of eight staff members as of 2019.