Kennedy hails McNally’s Privy Council appointment
The Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy has described the appointment of their leader in the House of Lords to the Privy Council as “symbolic”.
Lord McNally’s appointment to the Privy Council was announced by Downing Street this morning.
The Privy Council comprises of all Cabinet members, the Speaker, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, the Bishop of London and certain senior judges, with the main party leaders nominated by convention.
It was traditionally responsible for advising the Monarch, but the title now is mainly honorary – though there are still occasions where detailed briefings are given to members, who are also involved in important constitutional committees.
Speaking this morning, Lord McNally, said: “It is an honour to be made a Privy Councillor both personally and as recognition of the pivotal role which the Liberal Democrats play in the House of Lords.”
Charles Kennedy, who is himself a Privy Councillor, said: “The appointment of Lord McNally to Privy Council status is a symbolic decision. It signifies the growing importance of Liberal Democrats in the exercise of British politics and our pivotal voting position in the Upper House”.
