Thomas Carew, The Viscount Sidmouth

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The Right Honourable
The Viscount Sidmouth
KP OM GCVO KCB ONZ PC MP BA
ThomasCarew.jpg
Official Government Portrait
Prime Minister
First Lord of the Treasury
Assumed office
27 August 2024
(24 days)
MonarchCharles III
DeputyThe Baron St Brides
Lord High Steward of Great Britain
Assumed office
27 May 2024
(116 days)
Private Secretary to the Sovereign
First Clerk of the Green Cloth
Assumed office
1 March 2024
(203 days)
Member of Parliament for East Devon
Assumed office
20 September 2023
(1 year, 0 days)
Father of the House of Commons
Assumed office
5 March 2024
(199 days)
Preceded byWilliam Somerset
President of the Royal Automobile Club
Assumed office
30 May 2024
(113 days)
Preceded byPosition created
Chairman of the National Gallery
Assumed office
17 May 2024
(126 days)
Preceded byPosition created
Previous Positions
Royal Household
Lord Chamberlain of Great Britain
In office
1 March 2024 – 27 May 2024
(88 days)
MonarchCharles III
Preceded byThe Baron Stafford
Succeeded byThe Duke of Westminster
Private Secretary to the Prince of Wales
In office
4 January 2024 – 1 March 2024
(58 days)
MonarchEdward IX
Preceded byThe Duke of Warwick
Succeeded byThe Baron Scarborough
Financial Secretary to the Prince of Wales
In office
15 November 2023 – 4 January 2024
(51 days)
MonarchEdward IX
Government
Prime Minister
First Lord of the Treasury
Assumed office
27 August 2024
(24 days)
DeputyThe Baron St Brides
Preceded byThe Duke of Warwick
In office
5 March 2024 – 1 July 2024
(119 days)
DeputyThe Countess of Argyll
Owain Carew-Grey
The Baroness Wilton
Preceded by The 2nd Viscount Douglas
Succeeded byThe Baroness Wilton
Deputy Prime Minister
In office
10 January 2024 – 4 March 2024
(55 days)
Prime Minister The 2nd Viscount Douglas
Preceded by The 2nd Viscount Douglas
Succeeded byThe Countess of Argyll
Secretary of State in the Cabinet Office
In office
1 July 2024 – 27 August 2024
(58 days)
Prime MinisterThe Baroness Wilton
The Duke of Warwick
Preceded byThe Earl of Beaufort
Succeeded byThe Baron Huntingdon
Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs
In office
10 January 2024 – 4 March 2024
(55 days)
Prime Minister The 2nd Viscount Douglas
Deputy The Earl of Beaufort
Preceded by The Earl of Beaufort
Succeeded byOwain Carew-Grey
Secretary of State for the Home Office
In office
2 August 2024 – 27 August 2024
(26 days)
Prime MinisterThe Duke of Warwick
Preceded byThe Baron Huntingdon
Succeeded byThe Baron Scarborough
In office
21 September 2023 – 9 January 2024
(111 days)
Prime Minister The Earl of Stirling
The 2nd Viscount Douglas
Preceded by The Earl of Lothian
Succeeded by The 2nd Duke of Edinburgh
Leader of the House of Commons
In office
1 July 2024 – 27 August 2024
(58 days)
Prime MinisterThe Baroness Wilton
The Duke of Warwick
Minister of State for Sport
In office
2 June 2023 – 27 July 2023
(56 days)
Prime Minister The Duchess of Edinburgh
Preceded byPosition created
Succeeded byPosition dissolved
Parliament
Member of Parliament for East Devon
Assumed office
20 September 2023
(1 year, 0 days)
Father of the House of Commons
Assumed office
5 March 2024
(199 days)
Preceded byWilliam Somerset
Chair of the HPA Commons Committee
In office
12 May 2024 – 1 July 2024
(51 days)
Chair of the CEHST Commons Committee
In office
10 January 2024 – 29 January 2024
(20 days)
Political Offices
Leader of the Unionist Party
In office
1 May 2024 – 27 June 2024
(58 days)
Preceded byPosition created
Succeeded byThe Baroness Wilton
Member of the Unionist Party Frontbench
Assumed office
1 May 2024
(142 days)
Designate of the Heron Party
In office
5 March 2024 – 1 May 2024
(58 days)
Preceded byThe 2nd Viscount Douglas
Succeeded byPosition dissolved
Personal details
Born
Thomas Humphrey Christopher Eric Carew

18 May 2023 (1 year, 125 days)
Political partyUnionist Party
Other political
affiliations
Heron Party
(until 1 May 2024)
British Constitutionalist Party
(until 20 September 2023)
Spouse(s)The Baroness Wilton
(7 January 2024 - 21 August 2024)
ChildrenLord Knightstone (d.)
The Baron Calder
ResidenceKnightstone Estate
EducationThe King's School
Eton College
University of St Andrews
Signature
Nickname(s)Tommy, The Old Man

Thomas Humphrey Christopher Eric Carew, The Viscount Sidmouth KP OM GCVO KCB ONZ PC MP BA Econ (Hons), St. And (joined 18 May 2023) is British businessman, Unionist politician, writer, Motorsport personality, and English peer who currently serves as Prime Minister of Great Britain. He also serves as a Member of Parliament for East Devon and as Father of the House of Commons, having served in Parliament for the last seven sessions. In the Royal Household, he serves as the most senior member of the royal staff, as the Principal Private Secretary to the Sovereign, Charles III. Concurrently, he serves as First Clerk of the Green Cloth and Lord High Steward of Great Britain, and thus he has been a member of the Privy Council since March 2024. In other areas of public life Carew is just as active, serving as the Chairman of the National Gallery, President of the Royal Automobile Club, and CEO of various Knightstone subsidiary companies, such as Knightstone Publishing, The Times newspaper, and Brooklands Motor Corporation.

He has previously served in a variety of other positions in Government, Parliament, and the Royal Household, serving as Prime Minister of Great Britain from March to July 2024, while remaining as the Private Secretary to Charles III while he was Prince of Wales. Regarding the former, he is the first PM to ever serve in the role while the leader of two different political parties, and was in the position for 119 days, the longest anyone had held the position since 2022; in the latter, he continued as a Private Secretary to the Prince of Wales upon his accession to the throne as Charles III, holding honorific titles such as Lord Chamberlain and currently Lord High Steward, as well as being the only member on the Privy Council not currently or previously associated with the Royal Family. As a Parliamentarian he is the current Father of the House, having served as the Member for East Devon for close to a full calendar year. He previously was the Chair of the Home and Public Affairs Commons Committee on two occasions, and currently remains on the Committee as of the 33rd Parliament of Great Britain. He has served in three out of the four Great Offices of State, serving (aforementioned) as Prime Minister, but also as Secretary of State for the Home Office (for two consecutive terms), and as Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, the latter of which he served alongside being Deputy Prime Minister.

Thomas, who originally was named Thomas Baker-Carew and then as Thomas Wright until January 2024, rose to prominence via his foundation and management of the EoGB Racing League, now known as RAC Formula 1. Carew, for his work, was appointed Minister of State for Sport in the Premiership of the Duchess of Edinburgh. Soon after, he would run for Parliament for the 28th Session as a member of the Heron Party, winning his seat by acclamation and being appointed Secretary of State for the Home Office under the Earl of Stirling. He continued in this position during the first term of the Premiership of the 2nd Viscount Douglas, but after the January 2024 General Election, he became Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, as well as Deputy Prime Minister. On the 19th February 2024, he was declared publicly as the Heron Party Designate for the upcoming election, and three days later Carew himself announced the signing of the Concorde Agreement, a coalition deal between the Herons and the British Liberal Party. As a result, Carew became the 28th Prime Minister of Great Britain on the 5th March 2024, also as the first PM elected during the reign of Charles III. He was also the first PM not to undergo the controversial Address-In-Reply, since its abolition during the previous Premiership. On the 22nd April the Coalition collapsed, resulting in Carew leading a minority Heron Government. Several days later on the 1st May, Carew made the difficult position to leave the Heron Party to establish the Unionist Party, alongside his wife and political rival, Josephine Carew-Grey. He was re-elected for a second term following the confirmation of a Unionist Majority at the May 2024 General Election, and Carew returned to Downing Street. He is the first Prime Minister to be in two different political parties during a tenure in the position. He left following the July 2024 General Election, having served 119 days (the second most of any elected PM), but remained in politics as a Cabinet Minister during the Premiership of the Baroness Wilton.

Carew joined the Wright Family in August of 2023, as the son of Andrew Wright, 1st Viscount Islington, and brother of future Leader of the Opposition, Yeldon Wright (later the Baron Scarborough). He left in January 2024, preceding the General Election to run as "Thomas Carew". On the 4th January he announced his engagement to former Chancellor of the Exchequer and prominent barrister, Josephine Carew-Grey, The Baroness Wilton. They married on the 7th January in St. Paul's Cathedral, which is within Lady Knightstone's constituency of Queen's Park and Maida Vale. Together they have two sons: the eldest, Owain Carew-Grey, is the Private Secretary to the Prince Royal and incumbent Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. Their younger son, August Carew-Grey, The Baron Calder, is the Undersecretary of State for the Home Office. Carew is also the brother of Nicholas Carew, the Baron Plymouth. Furthermore, he is the son-in-law of Kathrine Grey and the brother-in-law of both Alistair S.R. Grey, and Prince Miann, Duke of Edinburgh, the husband of Charles III. As a result, he is the Uncle of Tobias, Prince Royal and William Somerset, The Earl of Durham.

The official seat of the Carew-Grey Family is the Knightstone Estate, a series of grand manor houses, farms and holdings in and around the Devonshire town of Ottery St Mary. The official residence of the family is The Chanters House, while Knightstone Manor serves as the private residence of Carew. It is where the name of his Barony is derived. His wife also owns Kylemore Castle in County Galway, Ireland, which serves as a holiday home during the Summer months. Furthermore, Powys Castle is the main seat of Lady Wilton and as such served as another holiday home for the family. When he was Prime Minister, Carew also held residence at both Number 10 Downing Street and at Chequers, being the first PM to spend time at the private estate. Currently he still resides at 10 Downing Street, as the husband of the incumbent Prime Minister.

On the 6th of April 2024 he was elevated to the peerage as the Baron Knightstone, and was styled as Lord Knightstone. On the 23rd June he was elevated once more to his current position as Viscount Sidmouth, and he is styled as Lord Sidmouth. He is also known as Tommy. Other nicknames include "Tommy Lascelles", with regards to his role as Private Secretary to the Sovereign; "Dennis Thatcher" in relation to his position as the husband of The Baroness Wilton when she was Prime Minister, and "The Old Man".

Early Life & Education

Carew joined the region late on the 18 May 2023.[1]

Early Education

Born in Devon, Carew recieved a traditional education, being taught at The King's School before being sent to study at Eton College in Windsor, as one of its noted alumni. He would send both his sons there: his eldest for the duration of his time in Secondary School, and just for sixth form regarding his younger son.

He recieved a Masters degree in history from Worcester College at the University of Oxford, becoming noted for his proficient writing ability and knowledge on trivial subjects.

A young Thomas Carew participating at Wimbledon on Centre Court.

St. Andrews

Following a gap-year working as an Intern in the Civil Service in Whitehall, more specifically the Foreign Office, he returned to studies with a Masters Degree from the University of St. Andrew's in economics, with a minor in law.

Sporting Career

Furthermore, he was a proficient tennis player: as President of the Oxford University Lawn Tennis Club he became well known, and won several junior championships. He was also a noted and permanent member of the St. Andrews University equivalent. He played four tournaments at Wimbledon: the first as a 19 year-old where he reached the Second round and after a years-hiatus, three more: his best result was an unexpected run to the Quarter-finals. He was a two time Junior Champion at Queen's and at the Eastbourne Open, also winning the former twice as a professional player via a wildcard entry.

He is most well known for his guest appearances both as a commentator during the Wimbledon season, but also in the senior championship and in exhibition games. He presented the Women's Singles trophy on one occasion on behalf of His Majesty The King. He is a permanent member of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club.

Carew is a noted Badminton enthusiast, known for spending time playing the sport. He has also been known to play golf relatively proficiently.

Early Political Career (June 2023 - March 2024)

Premiership of the Duchess of Edinburgh

Following Carew's formation and establishment of the EoGB Racing League, he was appointed as Minister of State for Sport under the Civil Service of the Edinburgh Ministry, in June of 2023. He was in the role for the rest of the Edinburgh Premiership, before the role was dissolved by her successor, the Viscountess Balloch.

Premiership of the Earl of Stirling

Carew decided to run for Parliament for the 28th Session, originally as an Independent before he switched. He chose the constituency of East Devon, owing to his knowledge and local love of the area. Carew is a proud "son of the Westcountry". Only five candidates ran for Parliament, the minimum number needed, and as a result Carew was elected by acclamation.[2] Following a Majority for the Heron Party, Carew was given his first cabinet position; the office of Secretary of State for the Home Office under the Premiership of The Earl of Stirling.

In this role, he provided initiatives such as the return of Citizen of the Month (of which he won the October 2023 Nomination), and the search for a Chief Mouser, which concluded with the appointment of Cecil; he was also the only Member of Parliament to vote and debate on every Bill passed through the Commons. He also wrote his first Bill: the Driving Standards Act 2023, which recieved Royal Assent not long after.[3] He also wrote an amendment for the Good Samaritan Act 2023.

For his services to Government and Parliament, among other things, he became a Member of the Order of Merit in the Dissolution Honours of the 28th Session.[4]

Premiership of the Viscount Douglas

First Term: The Home Office

In the 29th Session of Parliament, no Party acquired a majority and so the Heron Party entered into a Confidence & Supply Agreement with the Independent Member of Parliament for Preseli Pembrokeshire, Llywellyn Lleyton. Carew remained in his position as Home Secretary, continuing with the progress of his previous term.

Carew as Chair of the Commons Culture Committee

Following a Period of Absence over the Festive Period, Carew returned to begin a comprehensive Audit of the New Mousing Department of the Home Office, and oversaw the Official Heron Party Response to the Duke of Warwick Affair on the 3rd January 2024.[5] Soon after, following the collapse of the Liberal Democrats, a General Election was called for the 30th Session of Parliament; to be concluded on the 8th of January. Carew once again had voted on every Bill in the Commons, the only one to do so that Session apart from his son, Owain W.G. Carew-Grey.

In his role as Home Secretary he also oversaw part of the Commons Culture Committee, the precursor to the HPA Committee that Carew would remain a part of for much of his time in the House of Commons. He also wrote "A guide to writing a will" to support those wishing to create one.[6]

Carew wrote two Bills, with both passing the Commons. These were the Mousing Standards Act (that established the Mousing Department of HM Government) and the Merry Christmas Resolution 2023.[7][8] He also wrote and suggested amendments to the Bus Nationalisation Act (to reduce ambiguities regarding private and State Ownership), the Inheritance Amendment Act (where he supported legislative amendments made by the 2nd Viscount Douglas), and the Omnibus Children's Rights Amendments Act.

Second Term: Deputy Prime Minister & The Foreign Office

Carew was duly re-elected for a third consecutive term, securing 85% of the possible votes he could have recieved, with the Heron Party and its Coalition Members securing a clear and workable majority.[9]

For his long service, as well as the expansion of Government to include notable returning statespeople such as the Duke of Edinburgh (who became Secretary of State for Home Affairs), Carew became the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, as well as assuming the position of Deputy Prime Minister.[10]

Carew was appointed Chair of the Commons Culture Committee by the Re-elected Speaker of the House of Commons, Llywellyn Lleyton.

On the 20th of January, the Prime Minister began a period of absence from the region, resulting in Carew taking over the running of Government Business in his role as Deputy Prime Minister.[11] He oversaw the resignation of his wife, Josephine Carew-Grey, from her position as Chancellor of the Exchequer. As a result, Carew published a Referendum regarding the Publics' vigour for the economy, something that resulted in continuing support for the return of some form of Economic Model.[12] Owing to a narrow majority in favour, Carew duly advised His Majesty King Edward IX to appoint Sir Elio Somerset as the new Chancellor of the Exchequer.[13] The Prime Minister returned on the 31st January, in which he thanked Mr. Carew "for his fantastic work in my absence", and that matters were "expertly handled".[14]

Thomas Carew as Home Secretary, alongside Tiff, who at the time was Mouser to the Home Office. One of the official images used by the Heron Party.

During this time the former Speaker of the House of Commons, Llywellyn Lleyton, resigned, and as such Carew supported the Right Honourable Member for Queen's Park & Maida Vale for the second time. With no competition, she was elected as Speaker. On the 29th of January, Carew was appointed Chair of the Business, Environment, Food and Science Commons Committee.

Owing to the Jubilee of King Edward IX, Carew participated in many of Parliaments' celebrations for the event, such as the Parliamentary Resolution and the Loyal Addresses.

As Foreign Secretary, Carew oversaw an uptick in Foreign Office Updates, reviving the practice following their phasing out under the Premiership of the Duchess of Edinburgh. He engaged in talks with both the Regions of Europeia and Talonia, and orchestrated an interview between the Prime Minister and the Grand Vizier Emeritus of the latter.[15][16]

Furthermore, Carew as Deputy Prime Minister was involved in several other areas of Government. Notably, he was a former member of the Economic Advisory Committee, and was in regular discussion with the Prime Minister on the topic of the economy, authoring several internal drafts and memos on the subject.[17] He made his own views on the economy public in the Treasury Consultation, advocating for bureaucratic simplicity and easier taxation to calculate.

Carew continued to write legislation, co-authoring the Listed Buildings Act with his son.[18] He wrote amendments for the Child Trust Fund Act (an Act he was a staunch advocate for), as well as for the War Memorial Protection Act.

Heron Designate

On the 17th of February, the Viscount Douglas announced his intention to step back as the Designate of the Heron Party after two terms. In a statement from Blenheim Palace, the Prime Minister said he would not run at all in the next General Election. Following this, the Heron Party on February 19th, issued a statement announcing that Carew had been declared and elected as the new Designate of the Party.[19] Furthermore, he was to run for the Premiership.

Carew entered negotiations with the British Liberal Party to enter a two-term coalition agreement, something that was finally agreed upon on the 24th of February. It was named the Concorde Agreement.[20]

On the 1st March 2024, the new King, Charles III, issued a writ of election to end the 30th Session: for the few days up to the end of the election, the Prime Minister and HM Government were reaffirmed to continue in their offices. Carew was unusually slow by his standards to register for the election (an hour after registration opened), but presented his campaign the same day, simply titled "Thomas Carew for PM", whereby he highlighted his legislative and Government Agenda if he were elected Prime Minister.[21]

The following day, Carew announced his proposed cabinet. While campaigning in his home constituency in the seaside town of Exmouth, Carew answered questions from Sig Vomerset of the Queenstown Herald-Monocle, a newspaper owned by Prince Victor, Duke of York, ranging from his cultural reforms, economic plans, and his experiences with the food outlet Greggs.[22]

On the 5 March, Carew was elected in as an MP for the fourth consecutive term, making him father of the house and acting Speaker for the Commons Speaker Elections. He was invited to form a Government the same day.[23]

Prime Minister (5 March 2024 - 1 July 2024)

Main Article: Premiership of the Baron Knightstone. For the people in Carew's administration, see: First Knightstone Ministry and Second Knightstone Ministry.

Premiership

Carew outside 10 Downing Street, making his first statement as Prime Minister.

Thomas Carew, Baron Knightstone's term as the Prime Minister of Great Britain began on 5 March 2024 when he accepted an invitation of Charles III, succeeding William Somerset, 2nd Viscount Douglas, and ended on the 1 July 2024, following his decision not to seek a third term in office. During this time he also served as Designate of the Heron Party until 1 May, and then as Leader of the Unionist Party from the 1 May up to the end of his Premiership. Furthermore, he served as First Lord of the Treasury. Carew is the second Prime Minister of King Charles III, and the first to be elected during his reign. He led the Herons and the British Liberal Party in the Concorde Coalition to secure a supermajority in the 31st Session of Parliament, before securing the biggest majority since the days of the British Constitutionalists under the banner of his new party, the Unionist Party. He served for 119 days, the fourth most of any consecutive tenure by Prime Ministers, and second in terms of elected PMs only to James Forsyte, 1st Duke of Warwick. In terms of cumulative days as PM, he ranks fifth, behind Prince Victor, Duke of York, Oliver Newman, the aforementioned Duke of Warwick, and Kathrine Grey, 1st Countess of Argyll.

From the 5th March until the 6th April, his Premiership was referred to as the Carew Premiership, but upon Carew's elevation to the peerage, it became known as the Knightstone Premiership, with Carew being referred to both by his last name as as Knightstone, or Lord Knightstone. For much of his first term he is referred to as "Carew", with "Knightstone" used more commonly during his second. On the 23 June he was elevated once more for his service as Prime Minister to be known as the Viscount Sidmouth. It was the second time in regional history that a sitting PM had recieved an elevation in the peerage, the first time also being Carew's elevation to the Barony of Knightstone. The overall name for the Premiership renamed "Knightstone" however, since the majority of Carew's time in Downing Street was spent with that name and the Honours List the elevation came with was a Dissolution Honours. Carew was referred to in Government as "Lord Sidmouth" for the last two weeks or so of his term, but informally, and only took up the title formally upon his departure from Downing Street.

Cabinet

Across Carew's two terms he oversaw a variety of cabinets and different Ministers, including three Home Secretaries, two Chancellors, three Deputy Prime Ministers, and four Special Advisors.

Foreign Policy

Foreign Policy was overall marked by two key developments, a Treaty with the region of Talonia and the high-profile breakdown of negotiations and relations with Europeia, along with their subsequent informal re-opening towards the end of the term.

Economic Policy

Domestic and Home Policy

Parliamentary Activity as Prime Minister

Alongside his role as Prime Minister, Carew became Father of the House of Commons, having served more current consecutive terms in the House than any other MP. As a result, he oversaw the Speakership Election for the 31st Session, with an acclamation announcing Elio Somerset, 1st Viscount Salisbury as Speaker. He returned to the same position the following term, overseeing the election of his eldest son, Owain Carew-Grey, as Speaker.

Unionist Party

Main Article: Unionist Party.

Thomas Carew, Unionist Party. May 2024.

Carew, alongside his wife, Josephine Carew-Grey, founded the Unionist Party on the 1st May 2024, in response to the earlier dissolution of the Concorde Coalition and their displeasure at running against each other in the upcoming General Election. The Herons and the British Liberal Party were both subsequently dissolved, with the Unionists fielding a large number of candidates. Carew was the parties first Leader, as its Designate, saying that he disliked the term "Designate" and aligning the party with more realistic precedent, with the Leader being the Designate and in charge of party policy. The "party elder" was to be appointed as Chair, at the time of founding this being Josephine Carew-Grey.

During the Party Conference at the Grand Brighton Hotel, Carew announced on the 28th May that he would stepping back as Unionist Leader and as PM at the next election. Carew proposed Josephine Carew-Grey as his successor, a motion seconded by August Carew-Grey, their younger son. The motion was not contested and as such Lady Knightstone would succeed Carew on the day the polls closed, which was later announced to be the 1 July 2024. It would mean Carew served 61 days as Unionist Party Leader.

He would remain on the Unionist Party Frontbench, a permanent privilege for the two founding members.

Post-Premiership Political Career

Premiership of the Baroness Wilton

Carew was appointed to two key roles within the Cabinet of his wife and Unionist Prime Minister, Josephine Carew-Grey, 1st Baroness Wilton. Not only was Carew appointed Leader of the House of Commons to oversee legislative agendas and to cooperate with the Speaker of the House of Commons, but he was also appointed as Secretary of State for the Cabinet Office, the fourth highest-ranked position in Government behind the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and First Secretary of State. In the role, Carew effectively served as Chief of Staff, advising the Prime Minister directly.

He oversaw the negotiations with Sophia for a Treaty of Friendship, adviced the PM on Ministerial appointments, and also contributed to Government bills and legislation in the Commons.

Following Lady Wilton's decision to resign from the position of Prime Minister due to ill health halfway through the term, Carew supported the Leadership bid of the Deputy Prime Minister, James Forsyte, The Duke of Warwick, who was invited to form a Government on the 2nd August.

Premiership of the Duke of Warwick

Remaining in his roles as Secretary of State to the Cabinet Office and Leader of the House of Commons, Carew also agreed to return to one of the Great Offices of State to serve as Secretary of State for the Home Office once again, replacing the recently-resigned Charles Wright, The Baron Huntingdon.

He was a co-writer of the key Governance Act 2024, a replacement for the Executive Act 2024 Carew previously contributed too, and he also suggested and helped with numerous amendments. Carew also made several major amendments to the Opposition Amendment Act regarding the Oppositions' hopes of creating a purpose-built residence for official business away from Westminster Hall. Despite initial opposition from others and stalls in debate, the Act passed through the Commons. The Act failed in the House of Lords, though Carew still supported a similar amendment later in the session made by Charles Wright. Carew also made substantial amendments to the Vehicle Registration Plates Act, owing to his knowledge on motors and vehicles in general.

Return as Prime Minister (27 August - Present)

Legislative Record

Voting Record

For Thomas Carew's full Parliamentary voting record see: Parliamentary Record of Thomas Carew.

Authored Bills

Thomas Carew has authored the following bills:

  • Driving Examination & Standards Act 2023 (A Non-Standard Act to regulate Driver Standards and licensing across all classes of vehicles).[3]
  • Mousing Standards Act 2023 (An Act to regulate and standardise the work expected and the rights recieved by Government Mousers).[7]
  • Merry Christmas Resolution 2023 (A Resolution to mandate the Merriness of this Festive Season).[8]
  • Listed Buildings Act 2024 (A Non-Standard Act to regulate Buildings of Historical Interest & Importance).[18]
  • Treaty of Osborne (Talonia) Act 2024 (An Act to ratify the Treaty of Osborne with the region of Talonia).[24]
  • National Gallery Act 2024 (An Act to establish the National Gallery of the Empire of Great Britain).[25]
  • Chequers Act 2024 (An Act to designate Chequers as the official country residence of the Prime Minister).[26]
  • HM Most Loyal Opposition Act 2024 (An Act to establish procedures relating to the formation and management of HM Most Loyal Opposition).[27]
  • May Budget Act 2024 (An Act to determine the Fiscal and Budgetary limitations of the Nation).[28]
  • Sporting Organisation Act 2024 (An Act to establish the Official Sporting Organisations of the Empire of Great Britain).[29]
  • Products of Protected Regional Origin Act 2024/ Pasty Act 2024 (A Non-Standard Act to protect and regulate distribution of culturally important, regional goods).[30]
  • Governance Act 2024 (An Organic Act to provide for the powers, duties, responsibilities, and limitations of the executive government).[31]
  • National Trust Act 2024 (An Act to establish the National Trust of the Empire of Great Britain).[32]
  • Building Regulations Act 2024 (A Non-standard Act to introduce building regulations and planning procedures within the Empire of Great Britain).[33]

The Listed Buildings Act 2024 was co-written with Owain Carew-Grey. The May Budget Act 2024 was co-written with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, James Forsyte. The Governance Act 2024 was predominantly written by Josephine Carew-Grey: Carew was listed as a writer since he was a contributor of several legislative ideas in the Bill. The National Trust Act 2024 was co-authored alongside Llywellyn Evans-Jones.

Royal Household Career

Household of the Prince of Wales

Carew was named Financial Secretary to Henry, Prince of Wales in November 2023. On the 3rd of January 2024, James Forsyte, 1st Duke of Warwick resigned from all positions in Government and in the Royal Household; Carew was thus appointed as Principal Private Secretary to the Prince of Wales. He was involved in the planning of the Jubilee for Edward IX, King of Great Britain.

The Prince of Wales later described Carew as his "Tommy Lascelles", in reference to the domineering Private Secretary of the 1950s. As a result, Carew adopted the nickname "Tommy".

On the 27th January, the Prince of Wales duly announced that Carew would continue as his Private Secretary upon his ascension to the throne as King Charles III.

His Majesty released his Jubilee Honours List early on the 22nd February, one which appointed Carew as a Knight Commander of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, "for services to Government, Parliament, the Crown, and regional culture."[34]

Carew was placed in charge of the Trooping the Colour for the Jubilee, an event he asked to coordinate at his request. It is the first Trooping the Colour ever performed in the region. It took place on the 23rd January, and incorporated the traditional Trooping, followed by a Balcony Appearance by members of the Royal Family and then a commemorative flypast, consisting of the WW2 Battle of Britain memorial flights, several Chinooks, and the Concorde in tandem with the Red Arrows.[35]

Household of the Sovereign

Upon the ascension of Charles III on March 1st 2024, Carew was appointed as the Private Secretary to the Sovereign. Following internal discussions, he suggested his son and new Assistant Secretary to the Sovereign, Owain W.G. Carew-Grey, become Keeper of the Royal Archives. Carew was made Lord Chamberlain of the Royal Household and, along with his role as Private Secretary, became a Member of the Privy Council.

He attended his first Privy Council Meeting the same day as Lord Chamberlain discussing key issues and points of agenda. He later began preparations for a Royal Visit to Scotland, asking Cameron Romefeller, 1st Countess of Argyll if His Majesty and The Prince Consort could stay at her residence, Balloch Castle.

As a Member of the Royal Household during this time, Carew is a Member of the Royal Order of Charles III.[36]

Following a change in Privy Council Appointments, Carew became Lord High Steward of Great Britain and alongside his role as Private Secretary, First Clerk of the Green Cloth, on the 27th May 2024.

From May 2024 Carew took over responsibility of the Court Circular for the Royal Family, but in July 2024 the Court Circular was discontinued. Around this time, Carew began to undertake duties akin to the former role of Keeper of the Royal Archives, updating and maintaining the roll of the peerage, records of honours recipients, and other important Royal information announcements, such as the composition of the Privy Council.

Owing to a change in data laws and legislation, the Privy Council was disbanded and reformed with permanent individuals in July 2024, of which Carew was the only "non-Royal", with all other members either being current members of the Royal Family or former monarchs.

Businesses

The Logo of Knightstone Publishing, founded April 2024.

Knightstone Publishing

In April 2024, Carew began Knightstone Publishing, a writing and media business for the preservation and creation of articles and novels, in particular the writing of wiki articles. His first client was John, Prince of Wales. The company maintains pages for the likes of Sirch Somerset, Marquess of Lorne; Owain Carew-Grey; Tobias, Prince Royal and many others.

It also owns The Times newspaper.

Brooklands Motor Corporation

Motorsport

Carew formed the EoGB Racing League in June of 2023, being appointed a Cabinet Minister soon after to administer the Competition. Despite the role being defunct following the end of the Edinburgh Ministry, Carew has continued to run the League in his position as CEO, while also running his own Team, Phare GP Engineering.

Writing

"The Chequered Flag: A History of British Motorsport"

"My Kindest Regards: A Fortunate Rise to Power"

The Times Newspaper

The Times was established by Carew's wife, Josephine Carew-Grey, The Baroness Wilton, but Carew himself also writes for the broadsheet, covering various topics.

"Claregate" fails to deter the Prime Minister

When the Curtain Falls

Paintings

Carew is a keen collector and artist, and quickly became known for his various forms of portraiture. During his term as Prime Minister, he founded the National Gallery to serve as an institution to preserve and create art exhibitions in commemoration of citizens. Much of the portraiture was commissioned and created by Knightstone. His works, however, are much more widespread, being notably used here on the wiki and also by various other citizens as face-claims. The Knightstone Brush Style is categorised by a familiarity with Oil Paintings, accompanied by candid, usually close-up, portraits and simplistic backgrounds in order to showcase the figure presented.

Personal Life

Wright Family

Originally known as Thomas Baker-Carew, he joined the Noble House of Wright in August of 2023, becoming the son of Andrew Wright, 1st Viscount Islington and younger brother of Yeldon Wright, later Baron Scarborough.[37] He was the only Member of the Wright Family not associated with the Liberal Democrats.

Carew decided to leave the Wright Family, and intended to do so just before the supposed end of the 29th Session of Parliament. However, the Duke of Warwick Affair caused the Prime Minister and Carew's close colleague, William Somerset, 2nd Viscount Douglas, to call a snap election. Thus, "Wright" announced his departure from the Wright Family on the 4th January. He took the name "Carew" as a result.

Carew-Grey Family

Carew was one of the founding members of the Carew-Grey Family alongside his at the time fiancée, Josephine Grey. He currently remains Patriarch of the family.

Josephine Carew-Grey, The Baroness Wilton

Josephine Mary Anne Carew-Grey is an accomplished barrister, politician, Parliamentarian and writer who is the first and only wife of Thomas Carew. Upon Miss Grey's arrival into the region in late 2023, her and Carew soon developed a close and healthy relationship. Their courtship was brief, with their engagement announced on the 4th January 2024 from Carew's former residence of Chatsworth House. He remarked that the upcoming marriage was "an honour greater than any knighthood I may ever be bestowed" (at the time, Carew was simply The Honourable Thomas Carew, without a Knighthood nor a peerage).

The couple were married on the 7 January 2024 in what was considered one of the most prolific high-society weddings of the period, with the wedding being conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Nicholas Romefeller at St. Paul's Cathedral.[38] The Best man was William Somerset while Henry, Prince of Wales was the Maid of Honour. The Wedding Reception took place at the Savoy Hotel later that evening followed by their honeymoon at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York, and lastly at Goldeneye House in Jamaica, the former residence of Ian Fleming. The wedding car was a gloss white 1977 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow.

Thomas Carew and his wife, Josephine Carew-Grey.

Noted for their keen involvement in each others careers as "partners in crimes" and close confidantes, their connection and mutual understandings usually led them to make decisions contrary to the status quo of politics. Following the collapse of the Concorde Coalition during Carew's tenure as PM, the two upset expectations by dramatically leaving their respective parties to form the Unionist Party, in order to avoid a difficult election campaign neither of them wished to wage against the other. Their high-profile positions in each others Prime Ministerial Cabinets has led some to consider them a "political power couple", though their marriage is one built on mutual understanding, the cherishment of family, and the celebration of British (and Devonian) culture.

The couple have two children: Owain Carew-Grey, Lord Knightstone and August Carew-Grey, The Baron Calder.

Owain Carew-Grey, Lord Knightstone

Carew's eldest son, Owain Wentworth Thomas Carew-Grey is an experienced politician who has served in a variety of positions throughout the Empire. Affectionately known as "Cheeky Chops", a nickname of which Carew himself christened Owain, he is as well-known for his political achievements as for his tendency to involve himself in general tomfoolery. He was educated at Eton College on the insistence of his parents. He is married to Noel de Carteret. Formerly, he was engaged to Elio Somerset, The Viscount Salisbury before his departure.

Owain is a close political ally of his father, serving as Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and for a time, Deputy Prime Minister, in Carew's cabinets.

August Carew-Grey, The Baron Calder

The younger son of Carew, Augustus Edward Xeres Carew-Grey is an esteemed politician, parliamentarian and newspaper mogul, as well as former Prime Minister, who was adopted into the Carew-Grey Family upon his return to the region in April-May 2024.

Educated with respect to his Scottish roots via his mother, August remains a close member of the family.

Tiff, the faithful feline friend of Carew. Here he is posing for a ceremonial portrait, due to his former position as Chief Mouser.

Tiff

Tiff is the current family pet of the Carew-Grey's and of Carew specifically, serving as his loyal feline companion for the entirety of his political career. He served as Chief Mouser for the entirety of the Knightstone Premiership and also during the WIlton Premiership - it was announced that Tiff would retire from the role upon Lord Sidmouth and Lady Wilton departing Downing Street, so that he could continue to live with Carew.

The Grey Family

Via Carew's marriage to the current Lady Wilton he is related to the Grey Family, its matriarch being Kathrine Grey, The Countess of Argyll. Furthermore, Carew is the brother-in-law of Prince Miann, Duke of Edinburgh and the Lord Chief Justice, Alistair S.R. Grey, The Viscount Sutherland.

Titles

On the 6th April 2024 Carew was elevated to the peerage as "The Baron Knightstone", his wife also becoming "Baroness Knightstone". His son was entitled to be styled as "The Honourable Owain Carew-Grey of Knightstone."

Despite the relatively short-amount of time from his previous elevation, on the 23rd June, Carew became "The Viscount Sidmouth" for services as Prime Minister, to the Crown, Government and Parliament, and to the region as a whole.

Other Ventures

Carew is joint-owner of Beauvale Rovers Football Club, who play in the Regional Football League. In only one outing, they achieved a run to the Semi-finals of the Windsor Cup. The following season, they won the League Title, winning 4-3 in the finals against the Swansea Hoplites.[39]

Residences

The Knightstone Estate

Main Article: Knightstone Estate

The Knightstone Estate is a large selection of estates, manorhouses and holdings in and around the Devonshire town of Ottery St. Mary, with farms stretching as far as Sidmouth, East Hill and Exeter. Serving as the seat of the Carew-Grey Family, the official residence is The Chanters House, but the Estate is maid up of many other manors, the other predominant three being Knightstone Manor (from which the name of the Estate is derived), Cadhay, and Escot.

Kylemore Castle

Main Article: Kylemore Castle

A charming example of Victorian Castle Architecture, it was purchased by Carew's wife, Josephine Carew-Grey on the 1 March 2024 to serve as a holiday home. Carew visits intermittently for holidays.

Titles, Styles, Honours, Arms

Main Article: Titles, Styles, Honours and Arms of Thomas Carew.

Carew in ceremonial robes as Chancellor of the Royal Victorian Order, the RVO robes inset with the cape of the Order of Saint Patrick. The star of the Order of the Bath is on the left-hand side of his chest, while all his appropiate medals are also displayed.

Titles

  • Viscount Coronet.png 23 June 2024: Viscount Sidmouth[40]
  • Coronet of a British Baron.svg 6 April 2024: Baron Knightstone[41]

Styles

  • 18 May 2023 - 18 August 2023: Mr. Thomas H. Baker-Carew
  • 18 August 2023 - 20 September 2023: Mr. Thomas H. Wright
  • 20 September 2023 - 4 January 2024: The Honourable Thomas H. Wright
  • 4 January 2024 - 22 February 2024: The Honourable Thomas Carew
  • 22 February 2024 - 1 March 2024: The Honourable Sir Thomas Carew
  • 1 March 2024 - 6 April 2024: The Right Honourable Sir Thomas Carew
  • 6 April 2024 - 23 June 2024: The Right Honourable Lord Thomas Carew, Baron Knightstone
  • 23 June 2024 - present: The Right Honourable Lord Thomas Carew, Viscount Sidmouth

Honours

  • Order of Saint Patrick Ribbon.jpg Knight of the Most Illustrious Order of Saint Patrick (KP)[42]
  • UK Order of Merit.png Member of the Order of Merit (OM)[4]
  • UK Royal Victorian Order ribbon.svg Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO)[43]
  • Order of Bath.png Knight Commander of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath (KCB)[44]
  • Order of New Zealand.png Member of the Order of New Zealand (ONZ)[45]
  • CIII Order.png Companion of the Royal Order of Charles III[46]
  • CIIICoronation.png Recipient of the Charles III Coronation Ribbon[47]

Coat of Arms

Coat of arms of the Baron Knightstone
BaronKnightstoneCoA.jpg
Adopted
28 April 2024
Coronet
A coronet of a Baron
Crest
On a Mount Vert a Horse passant Argent holding in the mouth a Carew Feather (Crumby Crumpet)
Escutcheon
Quarterly, 1st and 4th: An Otter against a green background; 2nd: A red and black split argent, upon which are three towers of the City of Exeter; 3rd: A red and black split argent, with a charge of a white owl.
Supporters
On either side a a White and Gold Griffin
Motto
Nunquam Ruunt Perfectio (Perfection never rushes)
Orders
Circlet of the Order of the Bath (appointed Knight Commander on 22 February 2024).

Footnotes

  1. [1]T.W. Baker-Carew Citizenship Application, 18/05/2023
  2. [2]28th Session General Election | Registration, Results, 17/09/2023
  3. 3.0 3.1 [3]The Driving Examination & Standards Act 2023, 14/11/2023
  4. 4.0 4.1 [4]Dissolution Honours - 28th Session, 19/11/2023
  5. [5]Recent Developments Regarding HM Loyal Opposition, Heron Party, 03/01/2024
  6. [6]The Guide to Writing a Will, 06/12/2023
  7. 7.0 7.1 [7]The Mousing Standards Act 2023, 21/12/2023
  8. 8.0 8.1 [8]The Merry Christmas Resolution 2023, House of Lords, 06/12/2023
  9. [9]January 2024 Election Results, 08/01/2024
  10. [10]Opening Address of the Foreign Secretary, 11/01/2024
  11. [11]My Upcoming Leave of Absence, 10 Downing Street, 18/01/2024
  12. [12]The Future of the Economy, 11 Downing Street, 22/01/2024
  13. [13]A New Chancellor, 11 Downing Street, 23/01/2024
  14. [14]Returning to Office, 10 Downing Street, 03/02/2024
  15. [15]Foreign Affairs Update (002), Foreign Office, 06/02/2024
  16. [16]Interview with Talonia, Foreign Office, 12/02/2024
  17. [17]Formation of the Economic Advisory Committee, HM Treasury, 15/01/2024
  18. 18.0 18.1 [18]Listed Buildings Act 2024, 27/02/2024
  19. [19]New Party Designate, Heron Party, 19/02/2024
  20. [20]The Concorde Agreement, 24/02/2024
  21. [21]Thomas Carew for PM, 01/03/2024
  22. [22]QHM: Carew's Plan for Government + King in Scotland, 02/03/2024
  23. [23]Kissing Hands - 5 March 2024, Buckingham Palace, 05/03/2024
  24. [24]Treaty of Osborne (Talonia) Act 2024, 30/04/2024
  25. [25]National Gallery Act 2024, 09/05/2024
  26. [26]Chequers Act 2024, 10/05/2024
  27. [27]HM Most Loyal Opposition Act 2024, 14/05/2024
  28. [28]May Budget Act 2024, 17/05/2024
  29. [29]Sporting Organisation Act 2024, 23/05/2024
  30. [30]Pasty Act 2024, 25/06/2024
  31. [31]Governance Act 2024, 27/06/2024
  32. [32]National Trust Act 2024, House of Commons, 01/09/2024
  33. [33]Building Regulations Act 2024, House of Commons, 02/09/2024
  34. [34]Jubilee Honors, 22/02/2024
  35. [35]Trooping the Colour, 23/02/2024
  36. [36]Accession Honours List, 01/03/2024
  37. [37]Harewood House: Notice of Adoption, 3/08/2023
  38. [38]The Marriage of Thomas Carew and Josephine Grey, 06/01/2024
  39. [39]Premier League (Discord), 18/01/2024
  40. [40]32nd Parliament Honours List, re: Viscount Sidmouth, 23/06/2024
  41. [41]2024 Coronation Honours List, 06/04/2024
  42. [42]32nd Parliament Honours List, re: Order of Saint Patrick, 23/06/2024
  43. [43]2024 Birthday Honours List, 23/05/2024
  44. [44]Jubilee Honors, 22/02/2024
  45. [45]Empire Day Honors List, 28/07/2023
  46. [46]Accession Honours List, 01/03/2024
  47. [47]Coronation Address, 13/04/2024