Former Cabinet Minister Penny Mordaunt Made Dame in King’s Birthday Honours

Penny Mordaunt, former Conservative MP and Cabinet minister, has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in the King’s Birthday Honours 2025, recognizing her significant contributions to political and public service. Her profile rose notably after she made history as the first woman to carry the Sword of State during King Charles III's 2023 coronation, a role that drew widespread acclaim for her poise and strength. Mordaunt served as Secretary of State for Defence and Leader of the House of Commons, and twice contested the Conservative leadership before narrowly losing her Portsmouth North seat in the 2024 general election. Despite her electoral defeat, she remains a prominent figure with aspirations to return to Parliament and possibly challenge for party leadership again. Other political honorees in the list include Labour MP Sir Mark Tami, knighted for his long service, and Newcastle MP Chi Onwurah, who was named a Dame. Mordaunt expressed gratitude for the honor, emphasizing the support she received throughout her career.