Stephen Harper Admitted Into Order of Canada

Harper is one of four former prime ministers in the British capital for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth.

He was awarded the Companion of the Order of Canada in 2019, but an investiture ceremony had not taken place because of COVID-19.

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon invested Harper in a private ceremony in London Sunday afternoon while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and former prime ministers Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin and Kim Campbell looked on.

"As we gather to celebrate (the Queen), I was honoured to be invested into the Order of Canada by @GG Canada Mary Simon," Harper said, in a tweet posted about the event.

"Thank you to @Canadian PM Trudeau, former fellow Prime Ministers Martin, Chrétien, Campbell & former Governors General Johnston & Jean for attending the ceremony."

Former governors general David Johnston, whom Harper appointed, and Michaëlle Jean, were also in attendance.

Harper's wife, Laureen Teskey Harper responded to a journalist who suggested the flight to London would be interesting with all the political actors on the same plane.

"Interesting," she queried. "Very interesting if past trips are a reference. Lots of laughter, stories and I am sure this time, reminiscing about the Queen. These sort of trips are always wonderful to be part of."

Chrétien spoke briefly to media Sunday and was asked about being around all the other Canadian leaders.

"So many together and no fight," he said laughing. "So that's good."