NEW YORK CITY — Former Mayor Michael Bloomberg was made an honorary British knight Thursday, but you don't have to call him "sir" unless you work for him.
Bloomberg was named an Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire during a ceremony at the British Ambassador’s Residence.
Instead of "sir," which is reserved for knighted British citizens, the designation "KBE" can be used after a name to denote the honor.
"I’ve been very lucky to have had the opportunity to help strengthen the special relationship that exists between the United States and Great Britain — and between New York and London," Bloomberg said at the event which was attended by the former mayor's family and Vice President Joseph Biden.
The Washington Post reported that Bloomberg joked about not being called sir.
“Now, back in New York, a friend of mine was reminding me: This is only an honorary knighthood – and it does not, in fact, make me either a knight or a commander… nor does it come with the title, ‘Sir.’ ” he recalled. “I said, ‘Thank you, Sir Paul McCartney.’”
Bloomberg has strong ties to London. He owns a London home, has Bloomberg LP offices there and contributes to many charitable efforts and civic causes.
There was even recent speculation that Bloomberg could run for mayor of London although associates of the billionaire dismissed the idea, according to media reports.
“Michael Bloomberg has played a key role in forging transatlantic diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties. From Bloomberg LP's European headquarters in London to Tate Modern, the impact of Mr. Bloomberg’s contributions is felt every day by Britons," said British Ambassador to the United States Sir Peter Westmacott.
Other Americans who have received the same honor as Bloomberg included another former New York City mayor, Rudolph Giuliani, former Secretary of State Colin Powell and filmmaker Steven Spielberg.
"I've developed a deep appreciation and respect for the British people— and this recognition is one of the great honors of my life," said Bloomberg.
