Civil servants block PM's 'Sir Becks' bid
A BID by Tony Blair to get David Beckham a knighthood is being blocked by nervous civil servants, it was claimed last night.
The Prime Minister is said to be ready to include the resurgent England star in his resignation honours list – or in this summer’s Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Making him a Sir would mean wife Victoria becoming Lady Beckham.
But Whitehall is said to be worried that Beckham’s move to Los Angeles this summer means he’ll become a tax exile. An insider said: “Some officials feel there’s nothing wrong with honouring a player based in Europe and free to represent his country if required, but feel there’s a big difference if he is earning his main income in the US and unable to play for England.”
Beckham, 32, was drafted into the England squad to play a friendly against Brazil tonight and in a crunch European Championship qualifier against minnows Estonia next week. England coach Steve McClaren had controversially frozen him out since last August following doubts about his fitness, form and commitment.
there’s a big difference if he is earning his main income in the US and unable to play for England
After his exile from the England team, Beckham, who has 94 international caps, left Real Madrid and signed for the Los Angeles Galaxy in a deal worth up to £125million.
The US club is now unhappy that he appears to be once again part of England’s plans – which could cut down the number of games he is free to play for them. But Downing Street is said to see him as an iconic star. He has also earned approval for his work in helping to bring the 2012 Olympics to London and his efforts for charity.
A spokesman for Beckham said: “We’ve nothing to add to these rumours. This is just speculation.”
He would not say if the star would accept the honour if it was offered.
The Daily Express revealed last October that Mr Blair was keen to see Beckham rewarded with a knighthood.
