Starmer allies honours highlighted in new year awards list

Published: 30 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Two of Sir Keir Starmer’s closest political allies have been recognised in the new year honours list, a moment that highlights the enduring influence of long-standing figures within the Labour movement and reflects the shifting contours of modern British politics. The awards, announced as the country prepares to enter a new year, have drawn attention not only to personal achievements but also to wider debates about public service, party loyalty, and political accountability.

Anneliese Dodds, the former international development minister and a trusted ally of the prime minister, has been appointed a dame. Jonathan Ashworth, a senior Labour figure and former shadow cabinet member, has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Both honours acknowledge years of parliamentary service and political contribution, yet they arrive at a time when Labour continues to navigate the responsibilities of government and the scrutiny that accompanies power.

Dodds has been one of Starmer’s most consistent parliamentary supporters since his early leadership days. When Starmer was elected Labour leader in April 2020, she was appointed shadow chancellor, a role that placed her at the centre of efforts to restore the party’s economic credibility after electoral defeat. Her tenure was closely watched, particularly as Labour sought to redefine its fiscal stance and rebuild trust with voters. However, following a bruising by-election loss in Hartlepool in 2021, Starmer reshuffled his top team and replaced Dodds with Rachel Reeves, a decision widely interpreted as part of a strategic reset.

Despite that change, Dodds remained an important figure within Labour’s ranks. After the party entered government, she served as international development and equalities minister, roles that aligned with her long-standing interests in social justice and global responsibility. Her resignation in February this year, prompted by concerns over proposed cuts to international aid to fund increased defence spending, underscored her willingness to take principled stands even at personal cost. Supporters praised her decision as an example of integrity, while critics questioned the timing during a period of heightened global tension.

Dodds, who has represented Oxford East since 2017, responded to her damehood with characteristic emphasis on collective effort. She described the honour as a reflection of teamwork, acknowledging the contributions of parliamentary staff, civil servants, party colleagues, and the local community she represents. Her remarks reinforced an image of politics rooted in collaboration rather than individual ambition, a theme that has shaped much of her public career.

Jonathan Ashworth’s award also carries significant political resonance. He served in the shadow cabinet throughout Starmer’s period as leader of the opposition, holding several senior portfolios including health and work and pensions. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Ashworth became a familiar public voice, articulating Labour’s response to government policy and engaging in debates over public health, lockdown measures, and NHS capacity. His experience and media presence helped define Labour’s opposition strategy during one of the most challenging periods in recent British history.

Ashworth’s political journey took an unexpected turn in the July 2024 general election, when he lost his Leicester South seat to independent candidate Shockat Adam. The defeat surprised many within Labour, given Ashworth’s profile and long service since first being elected in 2011. Following the election, he assumed leadership of the influential thinktank Labour Together, an organisation closely associated with Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, and widely credited with shaping the strategic direction that propelled Starmer to the party leadership.

Labour Together’s role has not been without controversy. The thinktank faced scrutiny after Conservative figures questioned whether the support provided to Starmer’s leadership campaign had been properly declared. The organisation had previously been fined by the Electoral Commission in 2021 for failing to register nearly £740,000 in donations, an issue it attributed to administrative error. While no further sanctions followed, the episode highlighted ongoing concerns about transparency and funding within British political campaigning.

Ashworth’s CBE recognises both political and parliamentary service, as well as his charitable work supporting children affected by alcoholism. He has spoken openly about growing up with an alcoholic father, experiences that shaped his commitment to advocacy and support for vulnerable families. As a patron of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics, Ashworth has used his platform to raise awareness of issues often hidden from public view. His comments following the announcement emphasised hope that the honour would draw attention to children who endure such challenges in silence, particularly during holiday periods.

The new year honours list also recognised other notable political figures. Sarah Clarke, parliament’s former Black Rod, has been awarded a damehood, marking a historic career that saw her become the first woman to hold the ceremonial role in its 669-year history. Clarke left the position in July after more than seven years, during which she oversaw some of Westminster’s most significant ceremonial moments, including state openings shaped by pandemic restrictions and constitutional change.

Adam Ingram, who served as Labour MP for East Kilbride from 1987 to 2010, has been knighted in recognition of decades of service. His ministerial roles under Tony Blair included responsibilities in Northern Ireland and defence, placing him at the heart of key policy areas during a transformative era. Chris Ruane, the former Welsh Labour MP for the Vale of Clwyd, has been made an OBE for parliamentary service and contributions to wellbeing, including his role in establishing a mindfulness programme at Westminster aimed at supporting parliamentarians and staff.

Together, these honours paint a picture of a political generation shaped by service, controversy, and reform. For Starmer, the recognition of close allies underscores the importance of loyalty and experience within his leadership circle, even as Labour seeks to project renewal and competence. The awards also prompt reflection on the nature of public service, particularly at a time when trust in politics remains fragile and expectations of transparency are high.

As the honours list is debated across social media and political commentary, supporters argue that the recipients represent dedication and commitment across challenging circumstances. Critics, as ever, question the balance between merit and patronage. Yet the stories behind each award reveal complex careers marked by difficult decisions, personal conviction, and sustained engagement with public life.

Entering the new year, these honours serve as both recognition and reminder. They acknowledge past contributions while highlighting the ongoing responsibilities carried by those who shape national debate. For Dodds, Ashworth, and others recognised, the accolades close one chapter while reinforcing expectations for continued service in a political landscape that remains demanding and closely watched.