Valentine Low on Queen Elizabeth, Brexit, and Royal Family Dynamics

Queen Camilla's Assault and Advocacy

• 👠 Queen Camilla bravely fought off an attempted indecent assault as a schoolgirl using a high-heeled shoe.
• 💬 She shared this story with Boris Johnson during a tea at Clarence House, highlighting her advocacy for sexual violence and domestic abuse awareness.
• ✨ Camilla believes that discussing such experiences publicly can help reduce stigma and shame for other victims.

Queen Elizabeth II and Brexit

• 🤔 Valentine Low reveals evidence suggesting Queen Elizabeth II was a reluctant Remainer, contrary to some press reports.
• 🗣️ A minister reported the Queen stating, "I don't think we should leave the EU," and "Better stick with the devil."
• 🇪🇺 While skeptical of EU bureaucracy, the Queen generally saw the EU as part of the post-war settlement for European unity.

The Monarchy's Political Engagement

• 👑 Unlike Elizabeth II's guarded approach, Queen Victoria and George V were overtly political, actively influencing government.
• 🤫 Elizabeth II maintained a constitutional distance, rarely expressing overt political opinions, a contrast to her father and grandfather.
• ✉️ Harold Wilson noted the Queen's inability to express sorrow at his election loss, highlighting the shift in monarchical communication over 25 years.

King Charles III's Reign and Style

• 🌳 Charles has signaled a commitment to constitutional monarchy, referencing it in early speeches after accession.
• 🖼️ He subtly champions causes, such as commissioning portraits of Windrush generation individuals to acknowledge their contribution.
• ✍️ While previously outspoken, Charles now signals his views through actions rather than controversial letters or speeches, as seen with the GM food issue.

Prince William's Future Reign

• 🧐 William is perceived as serious and determined to be a good king, but potentially less intellectually engaged than his father.
• 🏛️ He expressed anger over the prorogation of Parliament, suggesting a desire to robustly challenge advice from the Prime Minister, though this is seen as potentially problematic.
• 📖 Unlike his father, William may not have read key constitutional texts like Walter Bagehot's "The English Constitution."

Royal Showmanship and Public Perception

• 🎭 The showmanship and pomp of monarchy are seen as adding to its value and public appeal.
• 👑 While some royals may tire of it, the public desires a spectacle, as demonstrated by the planning for Charles's coronation.
• 🌍 The role of monarchy is often misunderstood, even by senior politicians in other countries, highlighting the unique nature of the British system.