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US media tycoon Michael Bloomberg given British knighthood

Michael Bloomberg, former New York mayor and philanthropist, strengthened countries' ties

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Bloomberg is not entitled to call himself Sir Michael but can add the initials KBE, an abbreviation for Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire, to the end of his name. Photo: AP

Former New York mayor and philanthropist billionaire Michael Bloomberg has been granted an honorary knighthood from Britain.

The 72-year-old media tycoon is one of the richest men in America and was honoured on Monday for his "prodigious entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavours, and the many ways" in which these had benefitted British-US relations.

Bloomberg, who founded the successful news and financial data company Bloomberg PLC and served as New York mayor for a record 12 years until January this year, is well known for his love of Britain.

He made London the European headquarters of his company, has spent millions on supporting the arts and education in Britain and has a close relationship with colourful London Mayor Boris Johnson.

As an American, Bloomberg is not entitled to call himself Sir Michael but can add the initials KBE, an abbreviation for Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire, to the end of his name.

Accepting the honour, Bloomberg said he had long considered Britain his "second home".

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