PM’s act of dishonour

IN a grubby act of desperation Theresa May has handed out a knighthood to Tory MP John Hayes.

It is unlikely to be a coincidence that Hayes is a eurosceptic who needs persuading to back her in next month’s crucial Brexit vote.

When the Prime Minister came to office she pledged to restore “integrity” to the honours system and last year’s Tory manifesto promised a review to uphold public confidence.

How quickly Mrs May has abandoned these lofty ideals for cheap political gain.

Honours exist to reward those who contribute to society, who have shown great public service, performed voluntary work or demonstrated excellence in their field.

They should not be the plaything of a politician seeking tawdry favours.

Such cronyism reflects poorly on a PM who makes great play of her virtue and it insults those who are truly worthy of recognition.