UKFast chief collects MBE

Lawrence Jones picks up his gong at Buckingham Palace

The founder of hosting and colocation provider UKFast has been presented with his MBE in an official ceremony with the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Awarded the accolade for his services to the digital economy, Jones (pictured with his wife Gail and the MBE) explained that the medal was pinned to his lapel by Prince Charles.

Jones said: "Prince Charles spoke of our great work we are doing building the internet in the UK. He said: 'You should be very proud of your achievements with your datacentres and the work you are doing for Great Britain'.

"I told him we spent 15 years growing the internet [and] it is now time to focus our attention on protecting the great people of Britain."

Jones was referring to his recent activity which has seen him oppose the government’s plans on encryption services and snooping laws, branding them "poorly thought out" and "unworkable".

He added: "I was surprised how much Prince Charles knew about our work, and his comments only go to inspire me further. Britain needs entrepreneurs like us to help grow our economy. To be handed this award in person by our future king reminds me of the responsibility I have ahead and the role I have yet to play."

Jones also paid tribute to his team: "As nice as it is being recognised, you don’t get an award like this because of one person. I am the extension of an amazing organisation, so this is an award for everybody in UKFast. That’s how I see it."