by Paul Goodman
The Daily Telegraph points out that until this morning no knighthoods have been awarded to MPs since 2008. The recipient was Peter Viggers - a reminder, given his prominence in the paper's expenses revelations, why none were awarded last year.
The paper clearly reads the award of one to Peter Bottomley as a cautious move towards the rehabilitation of MPs. He's been honoured for public service in recognition of his "long and distinguished" parliamentary career, and ConservativeHome offers its congratulations.
Sir Peter, the husband of the former Cabinet Minister Virginia Bottomley, is an established figure on the left of the Party, with a long-term interest in charitable and church issues. His website notes that he is "a member of...the Transport House branch of the Transport and General Worker's Union."
The Labour MP Anne Begg has also been made a dame.
