Financial Times (June 1)
Stirring both celebration and reflection, Queen Elizabeth’s reign marked 60 years. “Monarchy may seem an outdated concept in a modern democratic age. But the enthusiasm spilling out on to Britain’s streets as the public celebrates Queen Elizabeth’s diamond jubilee shows that it can still command widespread respect and affection.” About 80% of Brits support the monarchy, and the Queen’s popularity is even higher. At her coronation, “Britain was in the grip of austerity. The occasion brought a flash of welcome pageantry to the everyday grimness. Today Britain is again facing hard times. This weekend offers another chance to forget the everyday but also to celebrate a monarch who has helped the UK stay a steady course.”Stirring both celebration and reflection, Queen Elizabeth’s reign marked 60 years. “Monarchy may seem an outdated concept in a modern democratic age. But the enthusiasm spilling out on to Britain’s streets as the public celebrates Queen Elizabeth’s diamond jubilee shows that it can still command widespread respect and affection.” About 80% of Brits support the monarchy, and the Queen’s popularity is even higher. At her coronation, “Britain was in the grip of austerity. The occasion brought a flash of welcome pageantry to the everyday grimness. Today Britain is again facing hard times. This weekend offers another chance to forget the everyday but also to celebrate a monarch who has helped the UK stay a steady course.”
Tags: Austerity, Coronation, Diamond jubilee, Monarchy, Popularity, Queen Elizabeth, UK