Has Becks really done enough to be knighted?

By KIRSTY WALKER and ARTHUR MARTIN

Last updated at 00:37 01 June 2007


David Beckham is at the centre of a Whitehall row over whether he should receive a knighthood.

The prospect of the former England football captain and his wife Victoria becoming Sir David and Lady Beckham has dismayed some civil servants who are concerned he will become a tax exile when he moves to the U.S.

In addition, there are questions over whether Beckham has actually achieved enough to warrant such an honour.

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David and Victoria Beckham

Two lists are being prepared - the Queen's Birthday Honours and Tony Blair's resignation honours.

Although Beckham's name has been put forward, some believe it should not be approved

at a time when he will be earning his main income and paying tax in the U.S. thanks to his £25million five-year deal with the LA Galaxy football club.

A knighthood would put the 32-year-old former England captain in the company of 1966 World Cup winners Sir Bobby Charlton and Sir Geoff Hurst.

But one Whitehall source said: "Some officials feel that there is nothing wrong with honouring a player who is based in Europe and free to represent his country if required, but feel there is a big difference if the same player is earning his main income and paying tax in the United States and unable to play for England."

Beckham is still a Real Madrid player but starts with LA Galaxy this summer. He was dramatically recalled by England this weekend after being dropped at the end of last year's World Cup.

Tory MP Patrick Mercer said those who have distinguished themselves in battle should be considered for a knighthood before Beckham.

He added: "I hope that if he is to be honoured, then the people who have placed themselves in considerable danger for their country and have contributed to the tax regime should be ahead of him in the queue for such an honour."

Former England defender Alan Mullery MBE said Beckham had not done enough to deserve a knighthood.

"If Bobby Moore, who led England to World Cup glory, cannot become a knight of the realm, then I don't think David Beckham should."

Downing Street refused to comment on whether Mr Blair had suggested Beckham for his retirement honours.

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