JK Rowling Declines Peerage Offers, Cites Personal Reasons Amid Political Praise and Criticism

JK Rowling has declined offers of peerage on two occasions and asserts she would refuse any future offers as well. The renowned writer of the Harry Potter series made this clear in response to remarks from Conservative leadership hopeful Kemi Badenoch, noting that she has received peerage proposals from both Labour and Conservative parties.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Monday, October 21, 2024, 11:

JK Rowling disclosed that she has declined two peerage proposals and would refuse any future offers as well.

The creator of Harry Potter was spotlighted as a potential peerage recipient by Conservative leadership candidate Kemi Badenoch, who commended her for her input on transgender issues.

Rowling shared on X: "It's generally frowned upon to discuss this, but I'll make an exception due to the unique situation.

"I have declined the offer of a peerage on two occasions, first during a Labour government and then during a Conservative administration."

Even if presented with the opportunity again, I would decline it once more.

"I'm the problem, not her."

Live political coverage: Starmer calls on voters to 'repair the NHS'

Further Insights on the House of Lords

While Labour strives to overhaul the Lords, the conclusion of this endeavor remains distant.

Police Detain Individual After Discovering Bow and Arrow in Vehicle Near House of Lords

Baroness Harman supports the proposal to remove members of the Lords when they reach 80 years old.

**Associated Subjects:**

Rowling has become a vocal participant in discussions surrounding gender, often championing the preservation of spaces designated for biological women and voicing her opinions on transgender matters in sports.

The writer was among the proponents of the Cass review of the NHS's services for children dealing with gender identity, a review that resulted in NHS England ceasing to prescribe puberty blockers to children suffering from gender dysphoria.

Ms. Badenoch conveyed to the Talk online streaming service that both Rowling and Dr. Hilary Cass, the writer of the Cass review, faced constant harassment from a variety of strange and malicious individuals.

The journalist then inquired whether the Conservative MP would consider awarding Rowling a title of nobility.

She expressed, "I would. I'm not sure if she would accept it.

"I would definitely grant her a title of nobility."

Lady Cass has been inducted into the House of Lords as a non-affiliated member following her receipt of a peerage from Conservative leader Rishi Sunak earlier this year.

Rowling, the author of the seven Harry Potter novels released from 1997 to 2007, did not disclose the names of the Labour and Conservative prime ministers who proposed her for a peerage in the Lords.

Further reading: Officials caution of tough decisions ahead in budget announcement

British national’s son detained in Hong Kong pleads for swift action from the UK

Transgender news anchor labels Rowling's remarks as 'grossly transphobic'

Stay ahead with the latest breaking news updates.

Download the Sky News application at no cost

She strongly backed the Labour Party when Gordon Brown, a close friend of hers, was at the helm, but she was openly critical of the party during Jeremy Corbyn's tenure as leader.

The writer has expressed worries about the stance of the Labour Party on matters concerning gender under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer.

Rowling has not openly discussed her opinions on the honors system before, but she chose to speak out now to avoid allegations of being "right-wing" or being upset about not receiving a peerage due to her alleged extreme prejudices.

Associated Subjects

Footer of Sky News

Information About Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Sky Network Channels

Additional Sky Websites