Western Morning News (Saturday)
Political and religious leaders unite in tribute
POLITICAL leaders from across the spectrum have paid tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh. Speaking at a podium outside Downing Street yesterday, Boris Johnson said Philip would be remembered for his “steadfast support” of the Queen, as well as his awards scheme, which “inspired” countless young people.
The Prime Minister said: “He was an environmentalist, and a champion of the natural world long before it was fashionable.
“With his Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme he shaped and inspired the lives of countless young people and at literally tens of thousands of events he fostered their hopes and encouraged their ambitions.”
In a reference to the duke’s love of carriage driving, Mr Johnson said Philip “helped to steer the royal family and the monarchy so that it remains an institution indisputably vital to the balance and happiness of our national life”.
The flags above Downing Street were lowered to half-mast after the news broke at noon.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the UK has “lost an extraordinary public servant in Prince Philip”.
He said: “He will be remembered most of all for his extraordinary commitment and devotion to the Queen.”
First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon said she was “saddened” by the news and sent her “personal and deepest condolences, and those of the Scottish government and people of Scotland, to Her Majesty the Queen and her family”.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said the duke “dedicated his life to our country” and “we will always be grateful for his amazing service”.
Campaigning was suspended ahead of elections in May as a mark of respect to the duke and the Commons will be recalled from its Easter recess on Monday.
Mr Johnson’s predecessors in 10 Downing Street also paid tribute to Philip.
Tony Blair said the duke was a “man of foresight, determination and courage”.
“He was often way ahead of his time in protection of the environment, in reconciliation between religious
faiths and of course in the creation of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which remains one of the most innovative and effective programmes for the betterment of young people anywhere in the world,” the Labour ex-prime minister said.
David Cameron said Philip left an “incredible legacy”, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.
“He showed true dedication to our country, with unstinting service stretching back to his courageous naval duty in the Second World War,” Mr Cameron said.
Theresa May said: “The nation and the entire Commonwealth owe Prince Philip an extraordinary debt of gratitude for a distinguished life of service to the Queen, our country and so many around the world.”
Sir John Major said it was “impossible to exaggerate” the role played by the duke in a lifetime of service to the monarchy and the nation.
“A distinguished naval officer, he was – for over 70 years – the ballast to our Ship of State,” Sir John said.
“Modest to the core, and hating any kind of fuss or bother, he epitomised the British spirit and remained true to himself right up to the very end.”
The Archbishop of Canterbury has led tributes from faith leaders, describing him as an “outstanding example of Christian service”.
Justin Welby said on the occasions he met the duke he was “struck by his obvious joy at life, his enquiring mind and his ability to communicate to people from every background and walk of life”.
Mr Welby said: “He was a master at putting people at their ease and making them feel special. The legacy he leaves is enormous.”
The Dean of Exeter Cathedral, The Very Revd Jonathan Greener, said: “We pray for Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family at this time of great personal loss. Throughout our nation, the Commonwealth and around the globe, millions of us are now sharing that sense of loss.”
Qari Asim, chairman of the Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board, said he was “a man of exceptional service and commitment”.
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis described him as “a remarkable royal, working well into his 90s, he became a role model for staying active in one’s latter years and demonstrated an unwavering sense of responsibility to our country”.