Former Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt has been awarded a damehood in the King’s Birthday Honours List, expressing her gratitude for the recognition after serving the constituency for fourteen years.
The ex-Conservative politician, who held senior government roles including Defence Secretary and Leader of the House of Commons, said she felt “very grateful” following the announcement.
“It is lovely to be appreciated in this way, and I’m very conscious that everything I have ever got done has been with the help and efforts of others. So I’m feeling very grateful on many counts today,” Dame Penny remarked.
Coronation Moment
Dame Penny gained national prominence during King Charles III’s coronation in May 2023, where she carried the Sword of State and presented the Jewelled Sword of Offering as Lord President of the Council – becoming the first woman to perform this ceremonial role.
The moment became a social media sensation, with viewers praising her composure whilst carrying the heavy sword throughout the lengthy ceremony, alongside her bespoke ceremonial attire.
Local Champion
During her 14-year tenure representing Portsmouth North, Dame Penny championed numerous local initiatives. She notably supported the restoration of Hilsea Lido, donating her appearance fee from reality show Splash! to the restoration charity.
Her constituency work included supporting Ukraine relief efforts, with Dame Penny personally helping deliver tactical supplies following the 2022 invasion.
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Political Career
Dame Penny was considered a potential Conservative Party leader but was unsuccessful against Liz Truss and later withdrew from the contest against Rishi Sunak.
She lost her Portsmouth North seat to Labour’s Amanda Martin by a narrow margin in the 2024 general election, vowing afterwards that she would “never stop caring for Portsmouth”.
