Tributes for loyal consort

PRINCE Philip has been remembered around the globe as a loyal consort to the Queen, who dedicated his life to selfless public duty.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the duke helped steer the royal family and monarchy for more than seven decades “so that it remains an institution indisputably vital to the balance and happiness of our national life’’.

Former Australian prime minister Tony Abbott, who controversially knighted the duke on Australia Day in 2015, said: “The world seems a little emptier tonight because Prince Philip has been a part of our lives for so long that it’s hard to grasp that he’s gone.

“He’s lived a long life of duty and service — to the whole Commonwealth but above all to his Queen.’’

Another ex-PM Julia Gillard praised Prince Philip’s “sense of fun”.

On Twitter, Ms Gillard recalled “fond memories” of their time together at a Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in 2011 in Perth.

And former PM Kevin Rudd said the duke had “a deep and abiding affection for Australia”.

“It matters not whether Australians are republicans or monarchists, Prince Philip’s passing is a very sad day for the royal family, who will be grieving deeply the loss of a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather,” Mr Rudd said.

Australians can send a condolence message to Buckingham Palace.

A condolence book will be available to sign at the gates of Government House on Sunday. Governor Linda Dessau said an online condolence book would be available too.

She described Prince Philip as an inspiration to millions of young people who would be “fondly remembered” by the people of Victoria.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also expressed her nation’s sorrow.