The Order of the Garter was founded by Edward III in 1348, reportedly inspired by the tales of King Arthur. Its Knights and Lady companions are chosen personally by the sovereign, with appointments typically recognising individuals who have held public office, made significant contributions to national life, or served the monarch directly. The three new appointees are historian and former journalist Lord Peter Hennessy, former cabinet secretary Lord Augustine Thomas O'Donnell, and former chief justice Lord Ian Burnett.
Lord Hennessy is a respected academic specialising in government history, with a career that included roles at The Times, the Financial Times, and BBC Radio 4. Lord O'Donnell served as Britain's highest-ranking civil servant between 2005 and 2011 and is also a board member for the worldwide wellbeing movement. Lord Burnett became the youngest Lord Chief Justice since 1958 when he was appointed in 2017 at the age of 59.
Other current members of the Order include former prime ministers Sir Tony Blair and Sir John Major. The Order of the Garter is celebrated annually with a traditional procession and service held within the grounds of Windsor Castle. It remains unclear what specific contributions or services led to the selection of these three individuals for the Order, and when exactly the traditional procession and service will be held this year.
There are also no confirmed plans yet to fill the remaining slot to reach the maximum of 24 members.