In the many tributes, obituaries, and messages of condolence from around the world following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a constant theme has been a recognition of her service, duty and devotion to communities across the UK, the Commonwealth and beyond.
Just a few months ago, during her Platinum Jubilee, we came together to celebrate her 70 years of extraordinary service to our nation.
The scale of the celebrations and the joy that they brought were testament to the affection in which she was held and the respect that we had for her.
As the Prime Minister noted in her tribute, Queen Elizabeth was the rock on which modern Britain was built.
She was there for us in the good times and the bad times. She provided us with strength and stability throughout her reign, including most recently during the pandemic when her broadcast to the nation reassured millions that we would get through it and that we would meet again.
“A constant theme has been a recognition of the Queen’s service, duty and devotion”
At this time of great sadness, my thoughts are with all the members of the Royal Family, but especially our new monarch, His Majesty King Charles III.
His accession to the throne marks the start of a new chapter in our national story.
I am sure that it will be marked by the same service and devotion to this country that his mother exhibited during her 70-year reign, and we in turn will express our loyalty to him by saying the words: God save the King.