1.    Over the past several years, Chief Bratton has been a key figure in an extensive dialogue between UK and US police chiefs, a dialogue which began with a conference following the tragedy of September 11, 2001.  Also many of the recommendations of the Independent Commission on Policing for Northern Ireland drew on Chief Bratton’s work in New York. He remains close to the policing reform process in Northern Ireland, and gives it valuable and solid support.

2.    The UK honours system recognizes exceptional achievement and service to the nation. There are several different types of awards, each one recognizing a different type of contribution. All British honours are awarded on merit.
 
3.   Non-British nationals who have made an important contribution to British interests can be nominated for honorary awards. These awards are conferred by Her Majesty The Queen on the advice of the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary.

4.   The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire was founded in 1917. The order honours civilians and service personnel for public service or other distinctions. It is widely used by HM The Queen to honour non-British subjects who have given outstanding service to the UK, both in the UK and abroad.

5.   The honour CBE is that of a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. The recipient may put the letters “CBE” after their name, subject to the rules laid down by authorities of the recipient’s country.

6.   Honorary awards to foreign nationals are published by the FCO website, which lists awards formally approved by The Queen annually.

• PHOTOS OF THE INVESTITURE WILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER 2:00 P.M. ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2009.