The Queen made a historic address to both Houses of Parliament on Tuesday in which she stressed the importance of stability and continuity in the country’s institutions and gave a clear signal that she intends to stay on the throne, quashing persistent media speculation that she might step down in favour of Prince Charles.
“I would like above all to continue with the support of my family to serve the people of this great nation of ours to the best of my ability through the changing times,” said the monarch, who turned 76 this month. The media have speculated over the years that Queen Elizabeth might wish to retire in favour of the Prince of Wales, who is now 53.
She also praised MPs and peers for “guiding this kingdom through changing times over the past 50 years”, and made a point of stressing Britain’s transitions to a “multi-cultural and multi-faith society”. “I would like to thank people everywhere for the loyalty, support, and inspiration you have given me over these 50 unforgettable years,” she continued. “I would like to express my pride in our past and my confidence in our future.”
The personally-written speech was intended to mark the start of the official period of celebration for Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee, and it is only the fifth time during her reign that the monarch has made such an address. The speech was made to MPs and peers gathered inside Westminster Hall, where the Queen’s mother was laid in state earlier this month. It comes on the eve of the start in Cornwall of the Queen’s nationwide 15-week Jubilee tour during which the monarch will visit every region of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Queen Elizabeth's personally-written speech stressed the importance of national values and the monarch said she would continue to "serve the people of this great nation of ours to the best of my ability"
Photo: © Alphapress.com
The monarch gave the address to MPs and peers gathered inside Westminster Hall, where her mother was laid in state earlier this month
