Well, I have a CBE and I accepted it with glee because it's not bestowed on you by the royal family, it's not bestowed on you by the government, you have to be nominated by the public.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I stood for parliament with the amazing support and help of my ex-husband, but it's not something that was handed to me like a peerage. I worked hard and was elected. So my achievements, such as they are, are my own.
Everyone says, 'It's just an honor to be nominated,' but that's so not true. You want to win.
I don't get recognised that much yet in London, but when I do I get a real sense of achievement.
I'm rather cynical about the way the honours system is used, frankly. A whole lot of the honours system is used for political purposes by the government in power.
Don't confuse honours with achievement.
It was surreal to think the Queen of England not only knew who I was but thought enough of what I do to give me an award.
I've been offered a peerage already, and turned it down.
I'm not interested in awards. I never have been. I don't think they are important. Don't get me wrong, if somebody gives me a prize, I thank them as gratefully as I know how, because it's very nice to be given a prize. But I don't think that awards ought to be sought.
Most awards, you know, they don't give you unless you go and get them - did you know that? Terribly discouraging.
I don't get recognized in England. Not at all. Every so often, I get recognized in other countries.