Giuliani flies in to receive knighthood

The former mayor of New York, Rudolph Giuliani, arrived in Britain last night to be honoured by the Queen for his role in the aftermath of the 11 September attacks.

He will go to Buckingham Palace today to receive an honorary knighthood for his work in helping the bereaved after the disaster, which left nearly 3,000 people dead.

Before he left New York with his partner, Judith Nathan, Mr Giuliani said the honour was a very humbling experience and he paid tribute to Britain for its friendship and support.

The Home Secretary, David Blunkett, and the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir John Stevens, have arranged meetings with Mr Giuliani during his three-day visit to learn how he engineered New York's steepest drop in crime in 30 years.