Labour Party’s chair, Anneliese Dodds, has stated that significant donors to the party would not automatically receive honours if Labour were to win the next general election. This assertion came amidst controversy following Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s recommendation for a knighthood for Mohamed Mansour, a considerable contributor to the Conservative Party. Dodds emphasized the necessity of an honours system that is free from reproach, while also mentioning that contributions to public life should be the primary criterion for awarding honours. The discussion on the issue surfaces amid ongoing debates about the impartiality of the honours system, especially considering past controversies such as the cash-for-honours scandal during Tony Blair’s premiership. Dodds criticised Sunak’s involvement in the recent decisions on honours, suggesting a public scrutiny of such choices.

In related political discourse, Esther McVey, termed the Common Sense Minister, has criticised the Labour Party, claiming it has become alienated from public sentiment due to the influence of “woke extremists”. McVey, referencing a recent referendum in Ireland as an example, pointed out a growing disconnect between political ideologies and public opinion on issues regarding gender and family roles. She argued that contemporary discussions often ignore biological sex differences, criticizing Labour leader Keir Starmer for his perceived reluctance on these matters. McVey advocates for a recognition of such differences without inciting hostility, expressing hope for a decrease in the dominance of “woke” ideology within UK politics.