Catholics in 2022 New Year Honours list

John Battle

People from many walks of life are named in the 2022 New Year's Honours List. In total, 1,239 people have received an award. Among the Catholics who have been honoured, are:

John Battle, former MP, who has been recognised with a knighthood for political and public service. He was the first director of Church Action on Poverty. Has been pro chancellor of Leeds Trinity University since 2017, serves on the Board of Citizens UK and co-chairs Leeds Citizens and is chair of the Diocese of Leeds Justice and Peace Commission.

Anne Peacey, Vice Chair of National Justice and Peace Network (NJPN) said: "John has been a patron, reliable supporter, and great friend to NJPN over many years. His commitment to social justice encourages us all to action.

"John's contribution to NJPN annual conferences has always been very special as he has the gift of presenting his deep knowledge of Catholic Social Teaching in a direct and accessible way, affirming our efforts, and challenging us to follow his example as we work and pray for a world where people may live in peace and harmony with each other and all of creation.

"NJPN is delighted that John's commitment to working for the good of all people has been recognised and we offer our congratulations, best wishes and an enormous thank you for everything he does."

Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald, former Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, has been awarded an OBE for services to interfaith and inter-Church partnerships.

Tony Blair, former Prime Minister has been appointed member of the Order of the Garter. He joins as a 'knight companion', and now becomes known as Sir Tony.

Sister Margaret Harlock, a governor of St Brendan's Catholic Sixth Form College, Bristol receives an MBE for services for education.

Julia Baines, a teaching assistant at Margaret Clitherow Catholic School, Bracknell, Berkshire, has been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to education for people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Jason and Laura Kenny, who were awarded CBEs for services to cycling in 2017, are now among the members of Team GB recognised with New Year honours, becoming a knight and dame.

Sir Jason won nine Olympic medals in Tokyo including seven golds, making him Britain's most successful Olympic athlete. Dame Laura won two medals, taking her total of Olympic medals to six, including five golds, putting her at the top of the list of medal-winning female British Olympians.

Raymond Friel, chief executive of Caritas Social Action Network, was recognised for his services to education with an OBE, following his career of nearly 30 years in education.

Evelyn Cosgrove, former principal of St Mary's Catholic school in Newry, Co Down, Northern Ireland, was awarded an OBE for her services to education.