Today was dominated nationally by the news of Gordon Brown and Harriet Harman taking over as leader and deputy leader of the Labour Party.  For me it was more important to go to Monkey World for the Memorial for Jim Cronin and to present MBEs, on behalf of the Queen, to Alison Cronin and Jim's to his brother John.

Someone described it as a bitter sweet occasion.  Jim was an extraordinary man and it was wonderful to be with 350 people who all wanted to celebrate his life.  But of course it was deeply moving because he died so young and with so much more to achieve.

Jim and Alison were awarded MBEs last year by the Queen for services to international animal welfare.  They have made a massive difference in protecting primates from smuggling and abuse, they provide a home for many who would otherwise have no future, and they do important work in protecting them in their own environment.  The awarded was promoted by organisations like the RSPCA and thousands of members of the public.

Because neither Jim nor Alison were British the Queen does not present the awards herself, and I was asked to do so as a Government minister and former minister for biodiversity.  It added something to the occasion and was a fitting tribute to their work.  Alison has of course pledged to carry it on.

After coming away from Monkey World I heard that Harriet Harman was deputy leader and Thierry Henry was definitely leaving Arsenal.  I was not a Harriet supporter but I am sure she will do well.  I am completely gutted that Thierry is leaving, I just hope it doesn't indicate that Arsene Wenger will be next...