Chair of the International Meat Trade Association (IMTA) Dr Margaret Boanas was made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) as part of the King’s 2026 Birthday Honours list.
The Government revealed that 1,182 recipients from across the UK had been celebrated in the King’s Birthday Honours List for having “contributed significantly” to their communities, going “above and beyond” in delivering positive change to benefit others.
Boanas was awarded the MBE for services to the meat sector, trade and to promoting opportunities for women.
Commenting on her award, Boanas said: “Whilst this is an honour to an individual I did not get here on my own, and I would like to say a huge thank you to all those people who I have worked with. I was fortunate when I started the journey to have a boss who challenged, mentored and believed in me – in the 1970s, young women were not always welcome in the meat industry. I went on to work with some great people who provided opportunities and supported my wider involvement in the industry.
“It is a privilege to be able to give back to an industry that I love, which has provided me with a wonderful career. Also thank you to the Boanas Evans family, who have been by my side, I couldn’t have done it without you.”
National Sheep Association (NSA) chief executive Phil Stocker was also awarded an MBE in recognition of his services to agriculture and animal health and welfare.
Stocker stated: “Being given this award is such an honour and it is difficult to put into words what it means to me. I am truly grateful for the recognition it gives to my work over many years, and it is a privilege and a pleasure to have been able to devote much of my working life into what are central components of sustainable life on earth – agriculture and animal health and welfare.
“I hope this award brings future opportunities and I want to recognise the people who have been by my side through this journey and with whom I’ve worked over the years.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented: “Across the UK, people are quietly changing lives and strengthening their communities. This Honours List is a chance to recognise them.
“Their dedication shows how lasting change is built – through compassion, resilience and a commitment to others.
“It speaks to the decent, hopeful country we are proud to be, and on behalf of the whole nation, I want to say thank you.”
