The Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood, or simply the Central Chancery, is an office of the
Lord Chamberlain's department within the
Royal Household of the
Sovereign of the
United Kingdom. It is responsible for the administration of
orders of chivalry and some aspects of
honours in general. It does not deal with nominations or decisions on appointments, but rather administers the appointment procedures and investitures, and provides the insignia. It is a small office, with eight staff in 2019.[1]
History and duties
The office was established by
King Edward VII in April 1904[2] in response to the recommendations of a committee set up in 1902 to consider changes to the administration of the
honours system. The new office replaced the
ad hoc arrangements which had evolved over time.[1] The Central Chancery is headed by a Secretary, who is assisted by an Assistant Secretary.[3]
Since 1931, the office has been held by retired and active duty officers of the
Armed Forces.
The current secretary, Lt.Col. Stephen Segrave, took part in the Royal Procession at the
2023 Coronation, leading the contingent representing orders of chivalry and gallantry award holders.[7]
Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Segrave (2019–present)[12]
References
^
abJonathan P. K. Smith. The Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood. Orders & Medals Research Society Journal, volume 58, number 3, page 172. September 2019.