The General Medical Council is deciding whether an assistant state pathologist for Northern Ireland, Dr Michael Curtis, was at fault over baby David Briggs' post-mortem examination in October 2000.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Northern Ireland | Baby 'was starved of oxygen'

Neeson's award, which recognises "an actor, director, writer or producer who has helped to focus the international spotlight on the UK", has previously been awarded to Richard Curtis, Michael Sheen and Keira Knightley.

BBC: Helena Bonham Carter and Liam Neeson to be honoured

Nor did he perform his new single "Screwdriver" that debuted earlier this year, opting instead for funk covers: Curtis Mayfield's "We're a Winner" and Michael Jackson's "Don't Stop Until You Get Enough" among them as the night dragged on and weary fans made their way to the exits early.

NPR: Prince Delivers Funk-Filled Finale At SXSW