TheCentral Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood, or simply theCentral Chancery, is an office of theLord Chamberlain's department within theRoyal Household of theSovereign of theUnited Kingdom. It is responsible for the administration oforders of chivalry and some aspects ofhonours 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]
The office was established byKing 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 thehonours system. The new office replaced thead 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 theArmed Forces.
The current secretary, Lt.Col. Stephen Segrave, took part in the Royal Procession at the2023 Coronation, leading the contingent representing orders of chivalry and gallantry award holders.[7]
^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.
