Tom Watson calling for Theresa May to hold a public inquiry into David Cameron’s ‘crony’ honours list

LABOUR is demanding a public inquiry into David Cameron’s honours fiasco and wants a law brought in to ban outgoing Prime Ministers from handing out gongs.

There is speculation the leak of the ex-PM’s honours list could have come from Downing Street and the Opposition’s deputy leader wants an investigation to find out if it is true.

Cameron was criticised after an extraordinary cabal of cronies were given awards, ranging from an exclusive Companion of Honour for George Osborne through to MBEs for two Government car drivers.

Others included OBEs for Samantha Cameron’s glamorous “girl Friday” Isabel Spearman and Thea Rogers who is credited with putting Mr Osborne on a diet.

Top press aide Craig Oliver was made a “Sir” along with bungling former Cabinet minister Oliver Letwin – known for dumping confidential papers in a public bin.

Donor Andrew Cook – who has given the Tories £1million and bankrolled the pro-EU Remain campaign – was another who got a knighthood, though fellow donor and oil boss Ian Taylor was missing after rejecting one amid bad publicity.

Tom Watson has written to Theresa May asking her to ensure Cameron’s resignation list is the last one and to lead by example by announcing she will not be making nominations when she leaves office.

And he wants an inquiry about how the names were leaked.

In his letter he said: “The names on the honours list were leaked in advance of a public announcement.

“I have written to the permanent secretary to ask when a leak inquiry is going to be initiated.

“I trust such an inquiry enjoys your full support but for clarity, I’d be grateful if you could confirm this in writing.”

Amid reports Mrs May is seeking a way to draw a line under the row, he said: "I would be grateful if you could outline the timetable for removing the discretionary powers of prime ministers to award resignation honours to their acquaintances and friends.

“How will the power be removed? It seems to me it may require primary legislation.

"Rest assured Labour will co-operate with any emergency legislation you would like to bring forward when the Commons sits next month.

“In light of the seriousness of the matter, please also give a guarantee that, in the event of your early departure from office, you will not use the discretionary power yourself.

“It's important that you lead by example and are seen to be doing so."