Former Work and Pensions Select Committee (WPC) chair, Frank Field, has been appointed to the Companion of Honour in the Near Year Honours List in recognition of his public and political service.

The title, which is one of the most exclusive accolades in the New Year Honours List, is shared by a maximum of 65 people at any time, with other figures currently holding the title including Sir Elton John, Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Judi Dench.

Speaking to the BBC about the news, Lord Field said: "Well, I'm very honoured to receive this acknowledgement. It's a terrific privilege considering the honour itself and what it represents.

"Following the work I've done, it's a lovely thought from which to conclude this year."

Field was previously awarded a life peerage in 2020 following his departure from the House of Commons, and has since sit sat in the House of Lords as a crossbencher.

Prior to this, Field held the role of WPC chair between 2015 and 2019, until he lost his Birkenhead seat in the December 2019 General Election after 40 years as its MP.

He resigned the Labour Party whip in August 2018 over concerns of anti-semitism in the party, leading to his departure from the Labour Party and standing as a candidate for the newly formed Birkenhead Social Justice Party in the December 2019 election.

During his time as WPC chair, Field’s work included monitoring The Pensions Regulator’s activities and powers, defined benefit pension scheme regulations, and inquiring into crises including Carillion and Arcadia.

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