Congratulations to Sir Greg Hands (History, 1985) who received a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours 2026 for his distinguished parliamentary and political service.

Greg was recognised for his “exceptional political longevity”, serving as a Government Minister for nearly 12 years under five successive Prime Ministers, twice at Cabinet. The official announcement commended Greg’s ministerial career:  “defined by high-stakes economic and international achievements, including securing 74 Free Trade Agreements, leading the UK’s entry into the CPTPP and the 2015-20 Government spending review. As Energy Minister, he launched the 2022 Energy Security Strategy in response to the invasion of Ukraine and pioneered the UK’s nuclear renaissance through the Nuclear Energy (Financing) Act.”  

It also acknowledged: “As a skilled linguist and former Party Chairman, Greg played a central role in maintaining government discipline during the Coalition years and strengthening the UK’s diplomatic ties with key global partners like the US and Germany.”

Greg said: “I am humbled and delighted to receive this recognition from the King and to have served for so long.”

Congratulations to Sir Greg on this well-deserved honour.