I was delighted to learn that Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson and Tony Hall will be joining me in the House of Lords. Both have been appointed as Crossbench (non-party political) peers.

Dame Tanni is one of Britain's greatest Paralympians, winning 11 Paralympic gold medals and setting more than 20 world records. She is Vice-Chair of the London 2012 Sports Advisory Group and a UNICEF International Inspiration ambassador.

Tony has been Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House since 2001, and was asked to set up and chair the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad Board last July. He is passionate about widening access to the Royal Opera House and its work, and to develop partnerships with performing arts centres around the world.

Both Dame Tanni and Tony will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the House. I'm sure that everyone will join me in wishing them well in their new roles.