It would seem you can’t escape fanboyism in even the most lofty corridors of power. It has been revealed by a former British MP (Member of Parliament) that he nominated Apple’s eponymous CEO for the title, but the request was shot down by then-Prime Minister Gordon Brown as payback for Jobs snubbing an invitation to speak at Brown’s Labour Party conference.
The MP (who has not been named) claimed he put the would-be Sir Jobs forward on the basis that –
“Apple has been the only major global company to create stunning consumer products because it has always taken design as the key component of everything it has produced. No other CEO has consistently shown such a commitment.”
However, due to Jobs’ refusal to speak at the Labour Party’s annual conference – which would have been seen as quite the coup due to his increasing celebrity and much-lauded business acumen – the nomination was taken right up to the final stage (with Apple even being made aware of the impending announcement) before ultimately being vetoed by Brown.
Only British citizens can be given full knighthoods, however foreigners can be given honorary knighthoods – Bill Gates was a recipient around 6 years ago.
Given the MP specifically highlighted Apple’s brilliance in design, it’s puzzling why Apple’s ubiquitous SVP of Industrial Design Jonathan Ive wasn’t put forward for the award, given that he is more directly responsible for the high quality of hardware that comes out of Cupertino. He also happens to be British, already holds a CBE, and most importantly has never pissed off Gordon Brown.
Via The Telegraph
