In a dramatic turn of events, a prominent Labour Party donor nominated for a peerage by Sir Keir Starmer has seen her membership of one of London's most exclusive gentlemen's clubs terminated. The development adds a new layer of controversy to Dame Ann Limb's nomination, which was already under scrutiny due to recent admissions about her qualifications and an ongoing charity investigation.
Athenaeum Exit and a Chairman's Dilemma
Dame Ann Limb's membership of the illustrious Athenaeum club has ended, according to sources familiar with the matter. The St James's institution, renowned for its membership of bishops, academics, and intellectuals, has remained silent on the circumstances of her departure. A club habitué revealed, "Her membership has ended, but I don't know in what manner," noting that her future had been in doubt since it emerged she had wrongly claimed to hold a PhD.
This marks a stark reversal for the 72-year-old, who has donated approximately £50,000 to the Labour Party. Until 2024, she held the prestigious position of the Athenaeum's chairman. Her exit, however, has not eased the pressure on her successor, Sir Philip May, the husband of former Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May. Club authorities are refusing to issue any statement, leaving members uncertain whether Dame Ann resigned voluntarily following a discussion with Sir Philip or was expelled.
"Many are furious with Philip May because they believe that his refusal to make a statement is bringing the club into disrepute," one disgruntled member commented.
Mounting Scandals and a Peerage Nomination
The loss of her club membership compounds a challenging period for Dame Ann. Just before Christmas, she admitted to being misleading about her academic qualifications. Furthermore, the City & Guilds of London Institute, which she has chaired since 2021, is now under investigation by the Charity Commission.
The probe centres on allegations that financial incentives were offered to executives to sell part of the organisation. This deal reportedly led to the CEO receiving £1.74 million and the CFO £1.2 million. A charity spokesman stated: "We remain confident that all actions taken by the trustees have been proper, transparent and in line with our charitable purpose." Dame Ann does not hold either of the executive positions implicated.
Despite these controversies, Sir Keir Starmer recently nominated her for a peerage. Intriguingly, her Who's Who entry, updated on 1 December, still lists the fictional PhD and an MA – though now attributed to Liverpool University rather than the Institute of Linguists, where she previously claimed to have earned it.
Other Notable Briefs
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Comedian Rosie Jones, the first stand-up with ataxic cerebral palsy, has faced criticism from GB News personality Adam Brooks, who called her "impossible to watch" and accused supporters of virtue-signalling.
Broadcaster Emma Forbes, 60, has shared a confident swimsuit photo, crediting a year-long health regime. Meanwhile, actor and explorer Brian Blessed, soon to be 90, has announced plans for a fourth Everest expedition, citing his fitness and ability at altitude.
Both Dame Ann Limb and Sir Philip May declined to comment on the Athenaeum matter.
