Queen’s pain at Prince and PM’S failures

THROUGH her 70 years on the throne, the Queen has been an example to the people of Britain.

Whatever your view on the monarchy as an institution, even the staunchest of republicans can have nothing but admiration for the way she conducts herself, the sacrifices she has made.

And her stoic calm in the face of even the greatest pressures is vital to the country’s fabric.

In the darkest times of crisis it is Her Majesty to whom the nation looks, in the knowledge that she will guide us through them.

That is why it must be terrible for her – although she would never express it – when she sees other people failing to meet her high standards.

Such as her Prime Minister – more of him later – and, above all at the moment, her son.

Today we learn that Andrew wept when he was stripped of his military titles. But what option did his mother have?

Humiliating

Two weeks ago we warned that the military were unhappy about Andrew continuing in his roles with the armed forces.

We urged him to do the right thing. However painful, however humiliating, listen to what is being said and give up his positions.

But he did not. Ego, pride, denial – call it what you will. He refused to do the right thing and forced the Queen into taking the decision for him.

He has let down his mother, let down those who begged him to go quietly. And it will take more than tears, more than letters to those proud regiments to undo the damage he has done.

This year should be one of celebration for the Queen. The Jubilee, Commonwealth Games, and a host of other events ought to mark a joyous year.

Nothing and no one should be allowed to cast a shadow over it.