David Cameron’s former aide claims ex-PM is using honours list as a ‘light way of paying off debt’ to political allies
MP Sir Desmond Swayne said the honours list was for those the former premier had cajoled into supporting him
DAVID Cameron's controversial honours list is his way of "paying off" debt to political allies and supporters, an MP ally has claimed.
Sir Desmond Swayne said the list - which even featured Samantha Cameron's stylist - was a "light" way of returning favours to those who supported him.
He told : "I think the reason we have an honours list is because over a period of government, particularly a difficult government in a coalition, a Prime Minister has to cajole and get the support of a number of people.
"He builds up a debt of honour and I think that frankly, an honours list is a relatively light way of paying it off."
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Sir Desmond acted as the former MP's Parliamentary Private Secretary, a whip, and an international development minister during Cameron's time in power.
He was also recommended for a knighthood by Cameron two months ago.
Cameron's resignation honours list has sparked calls for a complete process overhaul amid allegations of cronyism.
The leaked list of 48 names includes rich Tory donors and aides.
Mr Cameron was accused of gross cronyism and giving a "two-fingered salute" to the public after his recommendations were made public.
He put forward big-spending oil tycoon Ian Taylor and engineering supremo Andrew Cook - who have gifted the Conservatives more than £2.6m - for knighthoods.
Mr Taylor is said to be one of the most powerful figures in the international oil industry and Mr Cook, chairman of engineering firm William Cook, has lent the ex-PM his private plane more than 20 times.
Both men reportedly also gave big donations to the official EU referendum remain campaign group Britain Stronger in Europe.
And he proposed honours for 24 of his Downing Street staff including his personal drivers and a clutch of Remain campaigners.
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