Has the British Royal family become a royal burden? Reports reveal the Queen has been lobbying to secure her private interests. She recently exempted herself from a climate law. Palki Sharma has the details.

Gravitas: The Queen's secret lobbying and climate hypocrisy

Queen Elizabeth has awarded Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) the George Cross - the highest civilian gallantry award - in recognition of 73 years of dedicated service, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The honour has only been bestowed collectively twice before, and only once by the queen.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the award was a symbol of the nation’s gratitude.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-get-me-wrong-covid-19-has-not-been-vanquished-us-president-joe-biden-395818https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-get-me-wrong-covid-19-has-not-been-vanquished-us-president-joe-biden-395818">Also read |&nbsp;Don't get me wrong, COVID-19 has not been vanquished: US President Joe Biden&nbsp;</a>

“NHS staff have cared for us and our friends and family on the frontline of a pandemic for over a year, and I have witnessed their courage first-hand,” Johnson, who was treated by the NHS in intensive care with COVID-19 last year, said.

“I know the whole of the UK is behind me in paying tribute and giving thanks for everything the NHS has done for us, not only in the last year, but since its inception.”

The NHS was established in 1948 as the centrepiece of social reforms following World War Two, with a mission to provide state-funded comprehensive universal healthcare.

NHS Chief Executive Simon Stevens said the honour recognised the skill, compassion and fortitude of staff right across the service in responding to the worst pandemic in a century.

“Out of those dark times have come the best of what it means to be a carer and a health professional,” he said.

“In the face of adversity we have seen extraordinary team work, not just across the NHS but involving hundreds of thousands of volunteers, millions of carers, key workers and the British public who have played an indispensable role in helping the health service to look after many hundreds of thousands of seriously ill patients with coronavirus.”

The George Cross was first bestowed collectively to the people of Malta in 1942 by Queen Elizabeth’s father, King George VI, and to the Royal Ulster Constabulary by the queen in 1999.

Queen Elizabeth has awarded Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) the George Cross - the highest civilian gallantry award - in recognition of 73 years of dedicated service, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Queen Elizabeth has awarded Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) the George Cross - the highest civilian gallantry award - in recognition of 73 years of dedicated service, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. The honour has only been bestowed collectively twice before, and only once by the queen. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the award was a symbol of the nation’s gratitude. Also read | Don't get me wrong, COVID-19 has not been vanquished: US President Joe Biden “NHS staff have cared for us and our friends and family on the frontline of a pandemic for over a year, and I have witnessed their courage first-hand,” Johnson, who was treated by the NHS in intensive care with COVID-19 last year, said. “I know the whole of the UK is behind me in paying tribute and giving thanks for everything the NHS has done for us, not only in the last year, but since its inception.” The NHS was established in 1948 as the centrepiece of social reforms following World War Two, with a mission to provide state-funded comprehensive universal healthcare. NHS Chief Executive Simon Stevens said the honour recognised the skill, compassion and fortitude of staff right across the service in responding to the worst pandemic in a century. “Out of those dark times have come the best of what it means to be a carer and a health professional,” he said. “In the face of adversity we have seen extraordinary team work, not just across the NHS but involving hundreds of thousands of volunteers, millions of carers, key workers and the British public who have played an indispensable role in helping the health service to look after many hundreds of thousands of seriously ill patients with coronavirus.” The George Cross was first bestowed collectively to the people of Malta in 1942 by Queen Elizabeth’s father, King George VI, and to the Royal Ulster Constabulary by the queen in 1999.

Queen Elizabeth honours Britain's health service for pandemic work

Statues of Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth toppled in Canada

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden arrived at Windsor Castle to meet the Queen. The visit included a guard of honor and tea at the Emperor's Berkshire residence. It comes at the end of the G7 summit in Cornwall.

UK: US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden meet Queen Elizabeth at Windsor Castle

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden arrived at Windsor Castle to meet the Queen. The visit included a guard of honor and tea at the Emperor's Berkshire residence.

Queen Elizabeth reminded me of my mother, says US Prez Joe Biden

US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill had tea with Britain's Queen Elizabeth at Windsor Castle at the end of G7 Summit. The 95-year-old monarch, wearing bright pink floral outfit, greeted the Bidens in the Quadrangle of the castle. Windsor castle has been home to the royal family for nearly 1,000 years

A Guard of Honour formed of The Queen’s Company First Battalion Grenadier Guards gave a Royal Salute, and the US National Anthem was played.

The president and queen looked relaxed and chatted before they headed inside the castle for a private meeting.

The queen had already met the Bidens on Friday night when she hosted a reception for leaders of G7 countries

"Joe and I are both looking forward to meeting the queen," Jill Biden said after they arrived in Britain on Thursday. "That’s an exciting part of the visit for us."

Joe Biden and Jill would be the fourth president and first lady the queen has received at Windsor, following the Trumps in 2018, the Obamas in 2016, President George W. Bush and his wife in 2008 and the Reagans in 1982.

During her 69 years on the British throne, the longest reign of any English monarch, there have been 14 U.S. presidents, of which Elizabeth has met all bar Lyndon Johnson.

Despite the loss in April of Prince Philip, her 99-year-old husband of more than 70 years, and her age, the queen has shown her determination to carry on with her official duties as head of state during the high-profile G7 gathering.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill had tea with Britain's Queen Elizabeth at Windsor Castle at the end of G7 Summit. The 95-year-old monarch, wearing bright pink floral outfit, greeted the Bidens in the Quadrangle of the castle.

US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill had tea with Britain's Queen Elizabeth at Windsor Castle at the end of G7 Summit. The 95-year-old monarch, wearing bright pink floral outfit, greeted the Bidens in the Quadrangle of the castle. Windsor castle has been home to the royal family for nearly 1,000 years A Guard of Honour formed of The Queen’s Company First Battalion Grenadier Guards gave a Royal Salute, and the US National Anthem was played. The president and queen looked relaxed and chatted before they headed inside the castle for a private meeting. The queen had already met the Bidens on Friday night when she hosted a reception for leaders of G7 countries "Joe and I are both looking forward to meeting the queen," Jill Biden said after they arrived in Britain on Thursday. "That’s an exciting part of the visit for us." Joe Biden and Jill would be the fourth president and first lady the queen has received at Windsor, following the Trumps in 2018, the Obamas in 2016, President George W. Bush and his wife in 2008 and the Reagans in 1982. During her 69 years on the British throne, the longest reign of any English monarch, there have been 14 U.S. presidents, of which Elizabeth has met all bar Lyndon Johnson. Despite the loss in April of Prince Philip, her 99-year-old husband of more than 70 years, and her age, the queen has shown her determination to carry on with her official duties as head of state during the high-profile G7 gathering. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden meets Queen Elizabeth over tea after G7 summit

Britain's Queen Elizabeth on Saturday, June 13, insisted on cutting a cake using a ceremonial sword at an event on the sidelines of the G7 summit.&nbsp;

The Queen had been given the sword for the task of cutting a large cake. This was done to mark the Big Lunch at the Eden Project. Her efforts led to laughter from the Duchesses of Cornwall and Cambridge, and the crowds.

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My favourite thing about the G7 summit is these pictures of the Queen cutting a cake with a sword <a href="https://t.co/RL17apCb2u">pic.twitter.com/RL17apCb2u</a>
— Lillie. (@lillicent_x) <a href="https://twitter.com/lillicent_x/status/1403455645593055235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the queen met US President Joe Biden under the canopy of the world's largest indoor rainforest on Friday as she hosted a reception for leaders of the Group of Seven richest nations, who are holding a three-day summit.&nbsp;

The 95-year-old monarch was joined by the other senior members of the British royal family, with son and heir Prince Charles and his wife Camilla and grandson Prince William and his wife Kate also present.

It was their first major public event together since the funeral in April of Prince Philip, the queen's husband of more than seven decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-queen-elizabeth-hosts-biden-at-g7-reception-390948">Also Read |&nbsp;Britain's Queen Elizabeth hosts Biden at G7 reception</a>

At the reception, held at the Eden Project, whose distinctive bubble-like Biomes house thousands of plant varieties, the queen met Biden as US President for the first time. He is the 13th American leader she has met during her record-breaking 69-year reign.

Following a photocall with the queen, Prince Charles addressed the G7 leaders about his Sustainable Markets Initiative, which aims to involve business and private sector investment in government efforts to combat climate change.

"The fight against this terrible pandemic provides, if ever one was needed, a crystal-clear example of the scale, and sheer speed, at which the global community can tackle crisis when we combine political will with business ingenuity and public mobilization," the prince told them.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth on Saturday, June 13, insisted on cutting a cake using a ceremonial sword at an event on the sidelines of the G7 summit. The Queen had been given the sword for the task of cutting a large cake.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth on Saturday, June 13, insisted on cutting a cake using a ceremonial sword at an event on the sidelines of the G7 summit. The Queen had been given the sword for the task of cutting a large cake. This was done to mark the Big Lunch at the Eden Project. Her efforts led to laughter from the Duchesses of Cornwall and Cambridge, and the crowds. My favourite thing about the G7 summit is these pictures of the Queen cutting a cake with a sword pic.twitter.com/RL17apCb2u — Lillie. (@lillicent_x) June 11, 2021 × Meanwhile, the queen met US President Joe Biden under the canopy of the world's largest indoor rainforest on Friday as she hosted a reception for leaders of the Group of Seven richest nations, who are holding a three-day summit. The 95-year-old monarch was joined by the other senior members of the British royal family, with son and heir Prince Charles and his wife Camilla and grandson Prince William and his wife Kate also present. It was their first major public event together since the funeral in April of Prince Philip, the queen's husband of more than seven decades. Also Read | Britain's Queen Elizabeth hosts Biden at G7 reception At the reception, held at the Eden Project, whose distinctive bubble-like Biomes house thousands of plant varieties, the queen met Biden as US President for the first time. He is the 13th American leader she has met during her record-breaking 69-year reign. Following a photocall with the queen, Prince Charles addressed the G7 leaders about his Sustainable Markets Initiative, which aims to involve business and private sector investment in government efforts to combat climate change. "The fight against this terrible pandemic provides, if ever one was needed, a crystal-clear example of the scale, and sheer speed, at which the global community can tackle crisis when we combine political will with business ingenuity and public mobilization," the prince told them.

Queen Elizabeth insists on cutting a cake with sword

Has the British Queen been 'cancelled'? Oxford University students have taken down a portrait of Queen Elizabeth from their common room. Her portrait will be replaced by someone 'influential and inspirational'. WION’s Palki Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: Has the British Queen been 'cancelled'?

Britain`s Queen Elizabeth has been given a rose named after her late husband Prince Philip to mark what would have been his 100th birthday on Thursday, Buckingham Palace said. 
 
Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, died on April 9, just two months short of his landmark birthday after more than seven decades of marriage to Elizabeth, who is now 95. 
 
The Palace said that last week Elizabeth had been presented with a Duke of Edinburgh Rose - a newly bred pink commemorative rose - in his memory. 
 
It has since been planted at the rose border of the East Terrace Garden at the queen`s Windsor Castle home to the west of London, where she has spent most of her time since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and where her husband died. 
 
"Whilst being very poignant, it was a delight to give Her Majesty The Queen ... the Duke of Edinburgh Rose to mark what would have been (his) 100th birthday and to remember his remarkable life," said Keith Weed, President of the Royal Horticultural Society. 
 
A royalty from the sale of each rose will go towards the Duke of Edinburgh Award Living Legacy Fund, supporting a scheme for young people that Philip set up and which now operates in more than 130 countries.

Britain`s Queen Elizabeth has been given a rose named after her late husband Prince Philip to mark what would have been his 100th birthday on Thursday, Buckingham Palace said.

Britain`s Queen Elizabeth has been given a rose named after her late husband Prince Philip to mark what would have been his 100th birthday on Thursday, Buckingham Palace said. Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, died on April 9, just two months short of his landmark birthday after more than seven decades of marriage to Elizabeth, who is now 95. The Palace said that last week Elizabeth had been presented with a Duke of Edinburgh Rose - a newly bred pink commemorative rose - in his memory. It has since been planted at the rose border of the East Terrace Garden at the queen`s Windsor Castle home to the west of London, where she has spent most of her time since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and where her husband died. "Whilst being very poignant, it was a delight to give Her Majesty The Queen ... the Duke of Edinburgh Rose to mark what would have been (his) 100th birthday and to remember his remarkable life," said Keith Weed, President of the Royal Horticultural Society. A royalty from the sale of each rose will go towards the Duke of Edinburgh Award Living Legacy Fund, supporting a scheme for young people that Philip set up and which now operates in more than 130 countries.

UK's Queen Elizabeth gifted rose named after late husband Philip

It's a jam-packed schedule for US President Joe Biden as he heads to Europe. This will be Biden's first foreign trip as the President of America. The 8-day trip will last on June 16.

Queen Elizabeth II to meet US president Joe Biden on June 13

Britain's Prince Harry and his American wife Meghan Markle are now parents to a baby girl. The couple who married in 2018 also share a two-year-old son together called Archie.&nbsp; 
 
Meghan delivered her second child on Friday at the Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital in California, with Harry in attendance. The couple`s first child, Archie, was born in 2019. 
 
The couple announced the arrival of their second born on Sunday and revealed they have named her after Queen Elizabeth and his late mother Princess Diana. The baby girl is called Lilibet `Lili` Diana Mountbatten-Windsor. 
 
The choice of name pays tribute to the queen after a difficult year for the couple, and the wider royal family. Lilibet is a family nickname for the 95-year-old Queen. 
 
Meghan and Harry announced the birth with a statement. 
 
"On June 4th, we were blessed with the arrival of our daughter, Lili. She is more than we could have ever imagined, and we remain grateful for the love and prayers we`ve felt from across the globe," they said. 
 
"Thank you for your continued kindness and support during this very special time for our family." 
 
The couple honoured Harry's late mother Princess Diana by including her name as their daughter's middle name. Princess Diana died in a car crash in 1997.&nbsp; 
 
Both mother and baby - who is eighth in line to the throne - were doing well and were back at home, their press secretary said. 
 
Buckingham Palace said the queen, Harry`s father Prince Charles and his brother and wife, Prince William and Kate, were delighted with the news. Britain`s Prime Minister Boris Johnson joined them in sending his congratulations. 
 
William and Kate said via their official Twitter account.&nbsp;"We are all delighted by the happy news of the arrival of baby Lili. Congratulations to Harry, Meghan and Archie."

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We are all delighted by the happy news of the arrival of baby Lili. 
 
Congratulations to Harry, Meghan and Archie.
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The nature of the announcement, almost two days after the birth, reflects the new life the couple have chosen in the United States. 
When William`s wife Kate gave birth to her three children in recent years, she emerged each time alongside her husband from a London hospital just a few hours later to be photographed by the world`s media that had camped out in the street. 
 
The birth of Lilibet comes almost a year and a half after Harry and Meghan announced that they intended to step down from their royal roles, plunging the family into crisis. 
 
The situation deteriorated sharply in March this year when they gave an explosive interview to Oprah Winfrey, accusing one unnamed royal of making a racist remark and saying Meghan`s pleas for help when she felt suicidal were ignored. 
 
Harry, 36, and Meghan live in a secluded $14 million mansion in the celebrity enclave of Montecito, about 80 miles (130 km) north of Los Angeles, which is also home to Winfrey, comedian Ellen DeGeneres, and other celebrities.

Britain's Prince Harry and his American wife Meghan Markle are now parents to a baby girl. The couple who married in 2018 also share a two-year-old son together called Archie.

Britain's Prince Harry and his American wife Meghan Markle are now parents to a baby girl. The couple who married in 2018 also share a two-year-old son together called Archie. Meghan delivered her second child on Friday at the Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital in California, with Harry in attendance. The couple`s first child, Archie, was born in 2019. The couple announced the arrival of their second born on Sunday and revealed they have named her after Queen Elizabeth and his late mother Princess Diana. The baby girl is called Lilibet `Lili` Diana Mountbatten-Windsor. The choice of name pays tribute to the queen after a difficult year for the couple, and the wider royal family. Lilibet is a family nickname for the 95-year-old Queen. Meghan and Harry announced the birth with a statement. "On June 4th, we were blessed with the arrival of our daughter, Lili. She is more than we could have ever imagined, and we remain grateful for the love and prayers we`ve felt from across the globe," they said. "Thank you for your continued kindness and support during this very special time for our family." The couple honoured Harry's late mother Princess Diana by including her name as their daughter's middle name. Princess Diana died in a car crash in 1997. Both mother and baby - who is eighth in line to the throne - were doing well and were back at home, their press secretary said. Buckingham Palace said the queen, Harry`s father Prince Charles and his brother and wife, Prince William and Kate, were delighted with the news. Britain`s Prime Minister Boris Johnson joined them in sending his congratulations. William and Kate said via their official Twitter account. "We are all delighted by the happy news of the arrival of baby Lili. Congratulations to Harry, Meghan and Archie." We are all delighted by the happy news of the arrival of baby Lili. Congratulations to Harry, Meghan and Archie. — The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) June 6, 2021 × The nature of the announcement, almost two days after the birth, reflects the new life the couple have chosen in the United States. When William`s wife Kate gave birth to her three children in recent years, she emerged each time alongside her husband from a London hospital just a few hours later to be photographed by the world`s media that had camped out in the street. The birth of Lilibet comes almost a year and a half after Harry and Meghan announced that they intended to step down from their royal roles, plunging the family into crisis. The situation deteriorated sharply in March this year when they gave an explosive interview to Oprah Winfrey, accusing one unnamed royal of making a racist remark and saying Meghan`s pleas for help when she felt suicidal were ignored. Harry, 36, and Meghan live in a secluded $14 million mansion in the celebrity enclave of Montecito, about 80 miles (130 km) north of Los Angeles, which is also home to Winfrey, comedian Ellen DeGeneres, and other celebrities.

Prince Harry, Meghan Markle welcome their second child together

Britain's&nbsp;Queen&nbsp;Elizabeth&nbsp;visited the country's&nbsp;new&nbsp;aircraft&nbsp;carrier&nbsp;on Saturday, named in her honour before&nbsp;it leads a flotilla of Royal Navy ships to&nbsp;Asian waters on its maiden operational&nbsp;voyage.

The&nbsp;queen, aged 95, stepped aboard the HMS&nbsp;Queen&nbsp;Elizabeth&nbsp;in Portsmouth, seven years after she named the vessel alongside her late husband Prince Philip who died last month.

The 65,000-tonne&nbsp;Queen&nbsp;Elizabeth&nbsp;will carry eight British F-35B fighter jets and 10 US&nbsp;F-35s as well as 250 US&nbsp;marines as part of a 1,700-strong crew.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-queen-elizabeth-aircraft-carrier-to-visit-japan-south-korea-on-maiden-deployment-380844">Britain's Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier to visit Japan, South Korea on maiden deployment</a>

It will lead the flotilla alongside two destroyers, two frigates, a submarine and two support ships on its journey of 26,000 nautical miles over 28 weeks. The group will be joined by a US&nbsp;destroyer and a frigate from the Dutch navy.

The group will sail through the contested South China Sea, parts of which are claimed by China and South-East&nbsp;Asian countries, on its way to the Philippine Sea. The ships will also stop in India and Singapore.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uks-largest-naval-ship-to-sail-to-india-next-month-380639">UK's largest naval ship to sail to India next month</a>

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the deployment will help to project British soft power such as a belief in democracy and the rule of law.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth visited the country's new aircraft carrier on Saturday, named in her honour before it leads a flotilla of Royal Navy ships to Asian waters on its maiden operational voyage.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth visited the country's new aircraft carrier on Saturday, named in her honour before it leads a flotilla of Royal Navy ships to Asian waters on its maiden operational voyage. The queen, aged 95, stepped aboard the HMS Queen Elizabeth in Portsmouth, seven years after she named the vessel alongside her late husband Prince Philip who died last month. The 65,000-tonne Queen Elizabeth will carry eight British F-35B fighter jets and 10 US F-35s as well as 250 US marines as part of a 1,700-strong crew. Also Read | Britain's Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier to visit Japan, South Korea on maiden deployment It will lead the flotilla alongside two destroyers, two frigates, a submarine and two support ships on its journey of 26,000 nautical miles over 28 weeks. The group will be joined by a US destroyer and a frigate from the Dutch navy. The group will sail through the contested South China Sea, parts of which are claimed by China and South-East Asian countries, on its way to the Philippine Sea. The ships will also stop in India and Singapore. Also Read | UK's largest naval ship to sail to India next month British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the deployment will help to project British soft power such as a belief in democracy and the rule of law.

UK's Queen Elizabeth visits new aircraft carrier before Asia voyage

Prime Minister Boris Johnson hoped to use the opening of Britain’s Parliament on Tuesday to galvanize his government’s agenda after a striking series of victories in regional elections in England last week. But the spotlight shone brightest on Queen Elizabeth II, who appeared in public for the first time since burying her husband, Prince Philip, to handle the age-old pageantry.

Squired by her eldest son and heir, Prince Charles, the queen presided over a ceremony she had attended for decades with Philip. Now a widow, and three weeks after turning 95, her voice was firm and steady as she read the Queen’s Speech, in which Johnson’s government laid out an ambitious agenda to “level up” the economically depressed north of England with the more prosperous south.

It was the queen’s 67th opening of Parliament, a reassuring sign of continuity for Britain’s constitutional monarchy after a turbulent period for the royal family. For Johnson, it was a chance to bring normalcy back to politics, after the turmoil of Brexit and a pandemic that paralyzed the country, leaving more than 127,000 people dead.

Johnson signaled that he intended to keep playing a dominant role in the political arena, proposing to scrap a law that restricts his ability to call general elections. With the government reaping credit for Britain’s swift rollout of vaccines and the prospect of a post-lockdown economic boom, Johnson might decide to call an election a year early, in 2023, to take better advantage of the good news.

The government also proposed that voters be required to show photo identification at polling places in general elections, which it defended as a means to prevent fraud. But opposition parties criticized the move as unnecessary, and said it could suppress turnout, particularly among ethnic minorities — an argument often made about voter ID laws that have been passed by several American states.

“Voter ID is a disgraceful piece of chicanery,” said Baroness Rosalind Scott, a member of the House of Lords and a former president of the Liberal Democrats. “Voter fraud is very rare here, so it’s a solution in search of a problem.”

It was one of a handful of right-leaning measures — including a crime bill that would allow police to sharply restrict demonstrations and legislation to protect speech on university campuses — that served as a reminder that, for all its Social Democratic-style spending, Johnson’s party is still conservative.

The policing legislation has ignited angry “Kill the Bill” protests in London and other cities, where demonstrators view it as a way to crack down on legitimate gatherings. In Bristol, protesters lobbed rocks and fireworks at police, which some warned would backfire by stoking public support for the measures.

“Johnson’s going for what’s long been the sweet spot in British politics,” said Timothy Bale, a professor of politics at Queen Mary University in London. “Just to the left of center on economics and public provision; quite a long way to the right on pretty much everything else, especially if it has to do with law and order, immigration and now anything that smacks of political correctness gone mad.”

Much of the speech, however, was on more familiar, conciliatory ground. The government promised to “deliver a national recovery from the pandemic that makes the United Kingdom stronger, healthier and more prosperous than before.”

Reading a text prepared by Downing Street, the queen spoke fluently of Johnson’s plans to roll out “5G mobile coverage and gigabit capable broadband” throughout the country. The government will plow money into the National Health Service, a popular measure after it withstood a year of unrelenting pressure from the pandemic and overhaul planning regulations to encourage more construction of single-family houses.

The speech did not directly address perhaps the thorniest challenge facing Johnson: pressure for a second independence referendum in Scotland, where pro-independence parties expanded their majority in the regional Parliament in last week’s election.

The government said only that it would “promote the strength and integrity of the union” — a pledge that is likely to involve pouring more public money into Scotland and putting off the Scottish National Party’s demands to allow a vote.

“The question is, is Boris Johnson right to think that delaying it might help him?” said Jonathan Powell, who served as chief of staff to Prime Minister Tony Blair. “This will be the dominating issue of British politics for the next four or five years.”

With strict social distancing rules in place, the ceremony was scaled back and stripped down. The queen was driven from Buckingham Palace in a Range Rover rather than a gilded carriage. She shunned the 18-foot velvet cape and imperial crown that she once wore at state openings in favor of a more sensible lilac coat and hat.

The recent death of Philip also lent the proceedings a wistful atmosphere, even though he had turned over the duties of escorting the queen to Charles a few years ago, after his retirement. Charles and his wife, the Duchess of Cornwall, watched from the sidelines as Elizabeth sat on a carved wooden throne.

Although missing hundreds of jockeying lawmakers and VIP guests, the ceremony still had its share of otherworldly pomp. The crown, which normally resides in the Tower of London, was paraded through the echoing hallways of the Palace of Westminster on a red velvet pillow rather than on the queen’s head.

Lawmakers were summoned from the House of Commons by the Lady Usher of the Black Rod, who first had the door slammed in her face as a sign of its members’ independence. Johnson and the leader of the opposition, Keir Starmer, said nothing to each other as they walked, single file and masked, to the House of Lords.

Last week’s elections left the Labour Party in disarray, as Johnson’s Conservative Party made further inroads into Labour’s stronghold in working-class districts in the Midlands and the north of England.

Starmer tried to regain his footing in the debate that followed the ceremony, excoriating the government for not introducing legislation to bolster Britain’s care for older people and those with disabilities. Johnson, he said, had promised to do so 657 days ago.

“Failure to act after a pandemic is nothing short of an insult to a whole nation,” Starmer declared.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson hoped to use the opening of Britain’s Parliament on Tuesday to galvanize his government’s agenda after a striking series of victories in regional elections in England last week.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson hoped to use the opening of Britain’s Parliament on Tuesday to galvanize his government’s agenda after a striking series of victories in regional elections in England last week. But the spotlight shone brightest on Queen Elizabeth II, who appeared in public for the first time since burying her husband, Prince Philip, to handle the age-old pageantry. Squired by her eldest son and heir, Prince Charles, the queen presided over a ceremony she had attended for decades with Philip. Now a widow, and three weeks after turning 95, her voice was firm and steady as she read the Queen’s Speech, in which Johnson’s government laid out an ambitious agenda to “level up” the economically depressed north of England with the more prosperous south. It was the queen’s 67th opening of Parliament, a reassuring sign of continuity for Britain’s constitutional monarchy after a turbulent period for the royal family. For Johnson, it was a chance to bring normalcy back to politics, after the turmoil of Brexit and a pandemic that paralyzed the country, leaving more than 127,000 people dead. Johnson signaled that he intended to keep playing a dominant role in the political arena, proposing to scrap a law that restricts his ability to call general elections. With the government reaping credit for Britain’s swift rollout of vaccines and the prospect of a post-lockdown economic boom, Johnson might decide to call an election a year early, in 2023, to take better advantage of the good news. The government also proposed that voters be required to show photo identification at polling places in general elections, which it defended as a means to prevent fraud. But opposition parties criticized the move as unnecessary, and said it could suppress turnout, particularly among ethnic minorities — an argument often made about voter ID laws that have been passed by several American states. “Voter ID is a disgraceful piece of chicanery,” said Baroness Rosalind Scott, a member of the House of Lords and a former president of the Liberal Democrats. “Voter fraud is very rare here, so it’s a solution in search of a problem.” It was one of a handful of right-leaning measures — including a crime bill that would allow police to sharply restrict demonstrations and legislation to protect speech on university campuses — that served as a reminder that, for all its Social Democratic-style spending, Johnson’s party is still conservative. The policing legislation has ignited angry “Kill the Bill” protests in London and other cities, where demonstrators view it as a way to crack down on legitimate gatherings. In Bristol, protesters lobbed rocks and fireworks at police, which some warned would backfire by stoking public support for the measures. “Johnson’s going for what’s long been the sweet spot in British politics,” said Timothy Bale, a professor of politics at Queen Mary University in London. “Just to the left of center on economics and public provision; quite a long way to the right on pretty much everything else, especially if it has to do with law and order, immigration and now anything that smacks of political correctness gone mad.” Much of the speech, however, was on more familiar, conciliatory ground. The government promised to “deliver a national recovery from the pandemic that makes the United Kingdom stronger, healthier and more prosperous than before.” Reading a text prepared by Downing Street, the queen spoke fluently of Johnson’s plans to roll out “5G mobile coverage and gigabit capable broadband” throughout the country. The government will plow money into the National Health Service, a popular measure after it withstood a year of unrelenting pressure from the pandemic and overhaul planning regulations to encourage more construction of single-family houses. The speech did not directly address perhaps the thorniest challenge facing Johnson: pressure for a second independence referendum in Scotland, where pro-independence parties expanded their majority in the regional Parliament in last week’s election. The government said only that it would “promote the strength and integrity of the union” — a pledge that is likely to involve pouring more public money into Scotland and putting off the Scottish National Party’s demands to allow a vote. “The question is, is Boris Johnson right to think that delaying it might help him?” said Jonathan Powell, who served as chief of staff to Prime Minister Tony Blair. “This will be the dominating issue of British politics for the next four or five years.” With strict social distancing rules in place, the ceremony was scaled back and stripped down. The queen was driven from Buckingham Palace in a Range Rover rather than a gilded carriage. She shunned the 18-foot velvet cape and imperial crown that she once wore at state openings in favor of a more sensible lilac coat and hat. The recent death of Philip also lent the proceedings a wistful atmosphere, even though he had turned over the duties of escorting the queen to Charles a few years ago, after his retirement. Charles and his wife, the Duchess of Cornwall, watched from the sidelines as Elizabeth sat on a carved wooden throne. Although missing hundreds of jockeying lawmakers and VIP guests, the ceremony still had its share of otherworldly pomp. The crown, which normally resides in the Tower of London, was paraded through the echoing hallways of the Palace of Westminster on a red velvet pillow rather than on the queen’s head. Lawmakers were summoned from the House of Commons by the Lady Usher of the Black Rod, who first had the door slammed in her face as a sign of its members’ independence. Johnson and the leader of the opposition, Keir Starmer, said nothing to each other as they walked, single file and masked, to the House of Lords. Last week’s elections left the Labour Party in disarray, as Johnson’s Conservative Party made further inroads into Labour’s stronghold in working-class districts in the Midlands and the north of England. Starmer tried to regain his footing in the debate that followed the ceremony, excoriating the government for not introducing legislation to bolster Britain’s care for older people and those with disabilities. Johnson, he said, had promised to do so 657 days ago. “Failure to act after a pandemic is nothing short of an insult to a whole nation,” Starmer declared.

In a firm voice, Queen Elizabeth opens her 67th parliament

Queen Elizabeth's&nbsp;cousin, Prince Michael of Kent, has been caught offering investors access to the Kremlin in exchange for personal gain, according to a Sunday Times and Channel 4 investigation.

The embarassing claims come at a time of disastrous relations between London and Moscow, notably after the 2018 poisoning of a former Russian spy in England.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="UK nuclear arms plan is illegal: Russian envoy ">UK nuclear arms plan is illegal: Russian envoy &nbsp;</a>

Prince Michael told undercover reporters posing as investors from South Korea in a virtual meeting that for £10,000 (11,500 euros) a day he could make "confidential" representations to Russian President Vladimir Putin's entourage.

Channel 4's Dispatches programme and the weekly newspaper set up a fake South Korean gold company -- House of Haedong.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="UK to increase nuclear weapons stockpile with eye on Russia, China: Reports">UK to increase nuclear weapons stockpile with eye on Russia, China: Reports</a>

The prince said he could also give the company a royal endorsement in a recorded speech for $200,000 dollars (164,000 euros), with his Kensington Palace home as a backdrop.

In a recorded meeting with the undercover reporters, his business partner Lord Reading called the prince "Her Majesty's unofficial ambassador to Russia".

"I think ... this is kind of slightly discreet, we're talking relatively discreetly here," he reportedly said.

"Because we wouldn't want the world to know that he is seeing Putin purely for business reasons, if you follow me."

Reading had used an event at Kensington Palace in 2013, in which the prince was a guest, to sell access to Putin, the investigators said.

The event also offered a chance to personally meet the Russian leader at a future date.

Prince Michael's office told the British Press Association he had no special relations with Putin and "receives no public funding and earns his own living through a consultancy company that he has run for over 40 years.

"They last met in June 2003 and Prince Michael has had no contact with him or his office since then.

"Lord Reading is a good friend, who in trying to help, made suggestions which Prince Michael would not have wanted, or been able, to fulfil."

Reading admitted an error. "I made a mistake and over-promised and for that, I am truly regretful," he said.

The 78-year-old prince was decorated with Russia's Order of Friendship in 2009 when Putin was prime minister.

"Royals for Hire" shows Monday on Channel 4.

Queen Elizabeth's cousin, Prince Michael of Kent, has been caught offering investors access to the Kremlin in exchange for personal gain, according to a Sunday Times and Channel 4 investigation.

Queen Elizabeth's cousin, Prince Michael of Kent, has been caught offering investors access to the Kremlin in exchange for personal gain, according to a Sunday Times and Channel 4 investigation. The embarassing claims come at a time of disastrous relations between London and Moscow, notably after the 2018 poisoning of a former Russian spy in England. Also read | UK nuclear arms plan is illegal: Russian envoy Prince Michael told undercover reporters posing as investors from South Korea in a virtual meeting that for £10,000 (11,500 euros) a day he could make "confidential" representations to Russian President Vladimir Putin's entourage. Channel 4's Dispatches programme and the weekly newspaper set up a fake South Korean gold company -- House of Haedong. Also read | UK to increase nuclear weapons stockpile with eye on Russia, China: Reports The prince said he could also give the company a royal endorsement in a recorded speech for $200,000 dollars (164,000 euros), with his Kensington Palace home as a backdrop. In a recorded meeting with the undercover reporters, his business partner Lord Reading called the prince "Her Majesty's unofficial ambassador to Russia". "I think ... this is kind of slightly discreet, we're talking relatively discreetly here," he reportedly said. "Because we wouldn't want the world to know that he is seeing Putin purely for business reasons, if you follow me." Reading had used an event at Kensington Palace in 2013, in which the prince was a guest, to sell access to Putin, the investigators said. The event also offered a chance to personally meet the Russian leader at a future date. Prince Michael's office told the British Press Association he had no special relations with Putin and "receives no public funding and earns his own living through a consultancy company that he has run for over 40 years. "They last met in June 2003 and Prince Michael has had no contact with him or his office since then. "Lord Reading is a good friend, who in trying to help, made suggestions which Prince Michael would not have wanted, or been able, to fulfil." Reading admitted an error. "I made a mistake and over-promised and for that, I am truly regretful," he said. The 78-year-old prince was decorated with Russia's Order of Friendship in 2009 when Putin was prime minister. "Royals for Hire" shows Monday on Channel 4.

Queen Elizabeth's cousin offerered to sell access to Putin: Report

Britain's HMS&nbsp;Queen&nbsp;Elizabeth&nbsp;aircraft&nbsp;carrier&nbsp;will lead a flotilla of Royal Navy ships through Asian waters on port&nbsp;visits to&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;and South Korea on its&nbsp;maiden&nbsp;deployment, the British embassy in Tokyo said on Monday.

The high-profile&nbsp;visits, aimed at bolstering security ties in East Asia, come amid tensions in the region as concern grows in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;over any threat posed to neighbouring Taiwan by China.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and US&nbsp;President Joe Biden issued a joint statement this month addressing China's growing assertiveness and the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait following their first face-to-face meeting in Washington since both became leaders of their countries.

Including the&nbsp;Queen&nbsp;Elizabeth&nbsp;with 18 F-35B stealth fighters, two destroyers, two frigates and two support ships, the British&nbsp;carrier&nbsp;strike group will have to sail through the contested South China Sea, parts of which are claimed by China and South East Asian countries, on its way to East Asia. The ships will also stop in India and Singapore.

It will be joined by vessels from the United States and a frigate from the Netherlands and will carry out exercises with forces from&nbsp;Japan, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, France, the UAE, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Turkey, Israel, India, Oman and South Korea, the British government said in a news release.

Other foreign ships currently in Asian waters include a French amphibious&nbsp;carrier&nbsp;and two US&nbsp;navy&nbsp;aircraft&nbsp;carriers, one of which, the USS Ronald Reagan, is based in&nbsp;Japan. A close Washington ally,&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;hosts the biggest concentration of US&nbsp;military forces outside the United States, including warships, planes and thousands of marines.

The latest, and so far most conspicuous,&nbsp;visit&nbsp;to&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;by British forces follows earlier&nbsp;deployment&nbsp;of warships, jet fighters and troops for joint training exercises as London and Tokyo look to strengthen defence ties.

Britain's HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier will lead a flotilla of Royal Navy ships through Asian waters on port visits to Japan and South Korea on its maiden deployment, the British embassy in Tokyo said on Monday.

Britain's HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier will lead a flotilla of Royal Navy ships through Asian waters on port visits to Japan and South Korea on its maiden deployment, the British embassy in Tokyo said on Monday. The high-profile visits, aimed at bolstering security ties in East Asia, come amid tensions in the region as concern grows in Japan over any threat posed to neighbouring Taiwan by China. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and US President Joe Biden issued a joint statement this month addressing China's growing assertiveness and the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait following their first face-to-face meeting in Washington since both became leaders of their countries. Including the Queen Elizabeth with 18 F-35B stealth fighters, two destroyers, two frigates and two support ships, the British carrier strike group will have to sail through the contested South China Sea, parts of which are claimed by China and South East Asian countries, on its way to East Asia. The ships will also stop in India and Singapore. It will be joined by vessels from the United States and a frigate from the Netherlands and will carry out exercises with forces from Japan, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, France, the UAE, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Turkey, Israel, India, Oman and South Korea, the British government said in a news release. Other foreign ships currently in Asian waters include a French amphibious carrier and two US navy aircraft carriers, one of which, the USS Ronald Reagan, is based in Japan. A close Washington ally, Japan hosts the biggest concentration of US military forces outside the United States, including warships, planes and thousands of marines. The latest, and so far most conspicuous, visit to Japan by British forces follows earlier deployment of warships, jet fighters and troops for joint training exercises as London and Tokyo look to strengthen defence ties.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier to visit Japan, South Korea on maiden deployment

The Royal loyalists and fans of the royal family are in mourning today, as the funeral of Prince Philip is set to take place. Prince Philip’s coffin will be transported to his funeral&nbsp;in a specially designed Land Rover hearse.

The Queen, meanwhile, will arrive at her late husband’s final farewell in the state Bentley as part of the procession through the grounds of Windsor Castle to St George’s Chapel.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be just 30 guests – the majority of them the Duke’s close family – and the monarch will have to sit alone during service.

However, she will be accompanied to the church by a lady-in-waiting.

The Queen’s ladies-in-waiting, personally chosen by the monarch, have a variety of duties including attending to private and personal matters for the Queen and handling her correspondence. Some of the ladies-in-waiting have been with the Queen for more than 50 years and act as both friends and loyal assistants.

They have also been part of HMS Bubble – the name given to the reduced selection of around 20 staff attending to the Queen at Windsor during the lockdown.

The Palace has not said which lady-in-waiting will accompany the Queen in the vehicle. However, Elizabeth II’s senior lady-in-waiting is Lady Susan Hussey, who was married to the late BBC chairman Marmaduke Hussey.

While the Queen will be joined by her trusted companion on her way to the service, she will sit by herself in the quire of the chapel.&nbsp;As the Queen has been staying in Windsor with members of staff, she is unable to form a support bubble with another household.

So while couples who are within one household – such as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall – will be able to sit together, the monarch must sit alone.

Government guidance states that funeral ceremonies must have no more than 30 people attending, whether indoors or outdoors, and Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the congregation will wear face masks for the service.

The official advice instructs: “Wear a face covering, as required by law when attending indoor places of worship, crematoriums and burial ground chapels unless you are exempt for health, disability or other reasons.”

Singing, shouting, chanting or raising your voice must also be avoided in indoor settings, with the palace confirming that a choir of four people will be the only people singing in the church.

The 30-person guest limit does not include anyone working at the event, so the choristers, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Dean of Windsor are not counted.

Members of the public have been urged to stay away from the area on the day and to watch live on TV instead.

The Royal loyalists and fans of the royal family are in mourning today, as the funeral of Prince Philip is set to take place. Prince Philip’s coffin will be transported to his funeral in a specially designed Land Rover hearse.

The Royal loyalists and fans of the royal family are in mourning today, as the funeral of Prince Philip is set to take place. Prince Philip’s coffin will be transported to his funeral in a specially designed Land Rover hearse. The Queen, meanwhile, will arrive at her late husband’s final farewell in the state Bentley as part of the procession through the grounds of Windsor Castle to St George’s Chapel. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be just 30 guests – the majority of them the Duke’s close family – and the monarch will have to sit alone during service. However, she will be accompanied to the church by a lady-in-waiting. The Queen’s ladies-in-waiting, personally chosen by the monarch, have a variety of duties including attending to private and personal matters for the Queen and handling her correspondence. Some of the ladies-in-waiting have been with the Queen for more than 50 years and act as both friends and loyal assistants. They have also been part of HMS Bubble – the name given to the reduced selection of around 20 staff attending to the Queen at Windsor during the lockdown. The Palace has not said which lady-in-waiting will accompany the Queen in the vehicle. However, Elizabeth II’s senior lady-in-waiting is Lady Susan Hussey, who was married to the late BBC chairman Marmaduke Hussey. While the Queen will be joined by her trusted companion on her way to the service, she will sit by herself in the quire of the chapel. As the Queen has been staying in Windsor with members of staff, she is unable to form a support bubble with another household. So while couples who are within one household – such as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall – will be able to sit together, the monarch must sit alone. Government guidance states that funeral ceremonies must have no more than 30 people attending, whether indoors or outdoors, and Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the congregation will wear face masks for the service. The official advice instructs: “Wear a face covering, as required by law when attending indoor places of worship, crematoriums and burial ground chapels unless you are exempt for health, disability or other reasons.” Singing, shouting, chanting or raising your voice must also be avoided in indoor settings, with the palace confirming that a choir of four people will be the only people singing in the church. The 30-person guest limit does not include anyone working at the event, so the choristers, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Dean of Windsor are not counted. Members of the public have been urged to stay away from the area on the day and to watch live on TV instead.

A 'lady-in-waiting' might accompany Queen to Prince Philip’s funeral

Prince Philip makes his final journey

Before the final farewell to her Prince, Queen Elizabeth shared her favourite photograph&nbsp;with her late husband Prince Philip.&nbsp; 
 
On the day of his<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/live-updates-prince-philips-funeral-duke-of-edinburgh-to-be-laid-to-rest-at-royal-ceremony-378167"> funeral</a>, the Queen shared a&nbsp;rare photo of them together. The picture shows the couple, who were married for 73 years, sitting together peacefully and simply smiling on a sunny day while sitting in the Coyles of Muick in Aberdeenshire near the Queen's Scottish residence Balmoral.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-harry-will-rush-back-to-meghan-markle-after-prince-philip%E2%80%99s-funeral-378201" hreflang="en">Prince Harry will 'rush back' to Meghan Markle after Prince Philip’s funeral</a> 
 
The photo – taken by the pair's daughter-in-law, Sophie-the Countess of Wessex in 2003. In the picture, Prince is reclining on the green grass with a bucket hat on his knee and the Queen sat next to him wearing a tartan skirt with a &nbsp;green shirt and a cardigan.&nbsp;

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''The Queen wishes to share this private photograph taken with The Duke of Edinburgh at the top of the Coyles of Muick, Scotland in 2003. Photograph by The Countess of Wessex''. The caption reads.&nbsp; 
 
''Her Majesty and the Royal Family are grateful for all the messages of condolence from around the world and have been touched to see and hear so many people sharing fond memories of The Duke, in celebration of his life.'' the caption reads further.

<img alt="elizabeth" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a9d6ea09-b5f5-4ebf-adb2-36a683bdee5b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/happy%2030th%20birthday%20%2842%29.jpg" />

Although, this is not the first time the world is seeing the photo. Earlier, in 2004, the same photo was spotted during Queen's&nbsp;Christmas Day message, the&nbsp;framed photo was kept on a table in the&nbsp;Yellow Drawing Room&nbsp;at&nbsp;Buckingham Palace along with the other framed photo of Prince Charles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philips-funeral-list-of-notable-figures-who-will-attend-the-ceremony-377915">Prince Philip's funeral: List of notable figures who will attend the ceremony</a> 
 
Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, died on Friday at the age of 99. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince tied the knot in 1947 and since then, the pair became one of the royal family's longest relationships. Prince Philip was the royal consort for nearly 73 years, a record in the British monarchy.&nbsp; 
 
The Duke will be laid to rest today in a state funeral at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor

Before the final farewell to her Prince, Queen Elizabeth shared her favourite photograph with her late husband Prince Philip. On the day of his funeral, the Queen shared a rare photo of them together.

Before the final farewell to her Prince, Queen Elizabeth shared her favourite photograph with her late husband Prince Philip. On the day of his funeral, the Queen shared a rare photo of them together. The picture shows the couple, who were married for 73 years, sitting together peacefully and simply smiling on a sunny day while sitting in the Coyles of Muick in Aberdeenshire near the Queen's Scottish residence Balmoral. Prince Harry will 'rush back' to Meghan Markle after Prince Philip’s funeral The photo – taken by the pair's daughter-in-law, Sophie-the Countess of Wessex in 2003. In the picture, Prince is reclining on the green grass with a bucket hat on his knee and the Queen sat next to him wearing a tartan skirt with a green shirt and a cardigan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily) × ''The Queen wishes to share this private photograph taken with The Duke of Edinburgh at the top of the Coyles of Muick, Scotland in 2003. Photograph by The Countess of Wessex''. The caption reads. ''Her Majesty and the Royal Family are grateful for all the messages of condolence from around the world and have been touched to see and hear so many people sharing fond memories of The Duke, in celebration of his life.'' the caption reads further. Although, this is not the first time the world is seeing the photo. Earlier, in 2004, the same photo was spotted during Queen's Christmas Day message, the framed photo was kept on a table in the Yellow Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace along with the other framed photo of Prince Charles. Prince Philip's funeral: List of notable figures who will attend the ceremony Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, died on Friday at the age of 99. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince tied the knot in 1947 and since then, the pair became one of the royal family's longest relationships. Prince Philip was the royal consort for nearly 73 years, a record in the British monarchy. The Duke will be laid to rest today in a state funeral at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor

Queen Elizabeth shares heartwarming photo with Prince Philip ahead of the funeral

Britain`s Queen Elizabeth returned to royal duties on Tuesday, four days after the death of her husband, Prince Philip, in an event to mark the retirement of her household`s most senior official, PA Media reported. 
 
The queen hosted a ceremony as the Earl Peel stepped down as Lord Chamberlain, the report added. 
 
Philip, who had been at the queen`s side throughout her 69-year reign, died at Windsor Castle on Friday, aged 99. His funeral will be held on Saturday. 
 
The Duke of Edinburgh, as he was officially known, married Elizabeth in 1947. In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-and-the-queen-a-match-made-of-love-and-duty-376374">Prince Philip and the Queen: A match made of love and duty</a> 
 
In recent years, the queen has reduced her official engagements and passed many royal duties and patronages to Prince Charles, his son William and other senior royals. But she still carries out the most symbolic royal duties, such as the opening of parliament. 
 
The queen`s son, Prince Andrew, said on Sunday that the queen was stoic in the face of a loss she had described as "having left a huge void in her life." 
 
Despite the hole in her life left by Philip`s death, aides and royal experts have long said it would not lead to the queen, the world`s oldest and longest-reigning living monarch, relinquishing the throne in favour of her son and heir Prince Charles.

Britain`s Queen Elizabeth returned to royal duties on Tuesday, four days after the death of her husband, Prince Philip, in an event to mark the retirement of her household`s most senior official, PA Media reported.

Britain`s Queen Elizabeth returned to royal duties on Tuesday, four days after the death of her husband, Prince Philip, in an event to mark the retirement of her household`s most senior official, PA Media reported. The queen hosted a ceremony as the Earl Peel stepped down as Lord Chamberlain, the report added. Philip, who had been at the queen`s side throughout her 69-year reign, died at Windsor Castle on Friday, aged 99. His funeral will be held on Saturday. The Duke of Edinburgh, as he was officially known, married Elizabeth in 1947. In pics: Prince Philip and the Queen: A match made of love and duty In recent years, the queen has reduced her official engagements and passed many royal duties and patronages to Prince Charles, his son William and other senior royals. But she still carries out the most symbolic royal duties, such as the opening of parliament. The queen`s son, Prince Andrew, said on Sunday that the queen was stoic in the face of a loss she had described as "having left a huge void in her life." Despite the hole in her life left by Philip`s death, aides and royal experts have long said it would not lead to the queen, the world`s oldest and longest-reigning living monarch, relinquishing the throne in favour of her son and heir Prince Charles.

Queen Elizabeth returns to royal duties four days after her husband's death: Reports

On April 17, as the Birtish royal family comes together to bid final farewell to the patriarch Prince Philip, Meghan Markle will give the event a miss. Meghan is expecting her second child with Prince Harry in July this year and has stayed back in America on the advice&nbsp;of her doctor.&nbsp; 
 
Queen Elizabeth II, according to reports, 'understands why' Harry decided to travel home to the UK alone.&nbsp; 
 
"It was always a given that Harry would return to England for his grandfather's passing," a &nbsp;source told People magazine. The source revealed that the the Duke and Duchess of Sussex "were in contact with the Queen," ever since they heard of Prince Philip's death on Friday.&nbsp; 
 
"Meghan expressed condolences. The Queen understands why she can't travel at the moment," the insider added. 
 
Meghan was advised to not travel, the source explained. She is in California with the couple's son Archie who will turn two in May.&nbsp; 
 
Harry arrived at the UK on Sunday following the death of his grandfather. He is reportedly quarantining at the Fogmore Cottage- a place which was his and Meghan's residence before they permanently moved to America.&nbsp; 
 
The trip to the UK for the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral marks Harry's first visit home in over a year.&nbsp;

On April 17, as the Birtish royal family comes together to bid final farewell to the patriarch Prince Philip, Meghan Markle will give the event a miss. Meghan is expecting her second child with Prince Harry in July this year and has stayed back in America on the advice of her doctor.

On April 17, as the Birtish royal family comes together to bid final farewell to the patriarch Prince Philip, Meghan Markle will give the event a miss. Meghan is expecting her second child with Prince Harry in July this year and has stayed back in America on the advice of her doctor. Queen Elizabeth II, according to reports, 'understands why' Harry decided to travel home to the UK alone. "It was always a given that Harry would return to England for his grandfather's passing," a source told People magazine. The source revealed that the the Duke and Duchess of Sussex "were in contact with the Queen," ever since they heard of Prince Philip's death on Friday. "Meghan expressed condolences. The Queen understands why she can't travel at the moment," the insider added. Meghan was advised to not travel, the source explained. She is in California with the couple's son Archie who will turn two in May. Harry arrived at the UK on Sunday following the death of his grandfather. He is reportedly quarantining at the Fogmore Cottage- a place which was his and Meghan's residence before they permanently moved to America. The trip to the UK for the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral marks Harry's first visit home in over a year.

Queen Elizabeth 'understands' why Meghan Markle is not attending Prince Philip's funeral 

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. Prince Philip was a steadfast presence by the Queen for more than 7 decades of their marriage. Reactions poured in from world leaders after the news of Prince Philip's death.

UK

UK PM Boris Johnson said that Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, "earned the affection of generations" at home, in the Commonwealth and across the world.

"We give thanks, as a nation and a kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," the prime minister said outside 10 Downing Street.

India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prayed for peace for Prince Philip.

"My thoughts are with the British people and the Royal Family on the passing away of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He had a distinguished career in the military and was at the forefront of many community service initiatives. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

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My thoughts are with the British people and the Royal Family on the passing away of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He had a distinguished career in the military and was at the forefront of many community service initiatives. May his soul rest in peace.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1380487734196846594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

US

US President Joe Biden paid tribute to Philip as a selfless servant of Britain and its people.

"From his service during World War II, to his 73 years alongside the Queen, and his entire life in the public eye -- Prince Philip gladly dedicated himself to the people of the UK, the Commonwealth, and to his family," Biden said in a statement.

Also See | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-duke-of-edinburgh-life-in-pictures-376334">Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Life in pictures</a>

Former US President George Bush said Prince Philip represented the UK with "dignity".

"Throughout his long and remarkable life, he devoted himself to worthy causes and to others," Bush said in a statement. "He represented the United Kingdom with dignity and brought boundless strength and support to the sovereign."

Australia and New Zealand

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison ordered flags to be flown at half-mast in Australia to honour the passing of Prince Philip, who he said "embodied a generation that we will never see again".

"The Commonwealth family joins together in sorrow and thanksgiving for the loss and life of Prince Philip. God bless from all here in Australia," he said in a statement.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern also mourned Philip. She noted his close ties to New Zealand including as patron of the Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award, a youth achievement programme named in honour of New Zealand mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary.

"In over fifty years of The Award in New Zealand, thousands of young people have completed life-changing challenges through the programme," she said.

Israel

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to Prince Philip as he said that he will be 'much missed'.

France

French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Philip and sent his condolences to the Queen. 
Philip "lived an exemplary life defined by bravery, a sense of duty and commitment to youth and the environment", he said on Twitter.

Germany

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said his death filled her with "great sadness", sending her thoughts to the Queen.&nbsp;

See | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-1921-2021-lesser-known-facts-about-queen-elizabeth-iis-husband-376445">Prince Philip (1921-2021): Lesser-known facts about the Duke of Edinburgh</a>

"His friendship with Germany, his straightforward nature and his sense of duty will remain unforgotten," Merkel said. &nbsp;

Canada

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called Philip a "a man of great purpose and conviction, who was motivated by a sense of duty to others", in a tribute on behalf of his Commonwealth nation.

He will be "fondly remembered as a constant in the life of our Queen", he said.&nbsp;

European Union

EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen said on Twitter she was "saddened to hear of the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip".&nbsp;

"I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to Her Majesty The Queen, the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom on this very sad day."

(With AFP inputs)

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. Prince Philip was a steadfast presence by the Queen for more than 7 decades of their marriage. Reactions poured in from world leaders after the news of Prince Philip's death.

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. Prince Philip was a steadfast presence by the Queen for more than 7 decades of their marriage. Reactions poured in from world leaders after the news of Prince Philip's death. UK UK PM Boris Johnson said that Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, "earned the affection of generations" at home, in the Commonwealth and across the world. "We give thanks, as a nation and a kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," the prime minister said outside 10 Downing Street. India Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prayed for peace for Prince Philip. "My thoughts are with the British people and the Royal Family on the passing away of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He had a distinguished career in the military and was at the forefront of many community service initiatives. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted. My thoughts are with the British people and the Royal Family on the passing away of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He had a distinguished career in the military and was at the forefront of many community service initiatives. May his soul rest in peace. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 9, 2021 × US US President Joe Biden paid tribute to Philip as a selfless servant of Britain and its people. "From his service during World War II, to his 73 years alongside the Queen, and his entire life in the public eye -- Prince Philip gladly dedicated himself to the people of the UK, the Commonwealth, and to his family," Biden said in a statement. Also See | Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Life in pictures Former US President George Bush said Prince Philip represented the UK with "dignity". "Throughout his long and remarkable life, he devoted himself to worthy causes and to others," Bush said in a statement. "He represented the United Kingdom with dignity and brought boundless strength and support to the sovereign." Australia and New Zealand Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison ordered flags to be flown at half-mast in Australia to honour the passing of Prince Philip, who he said "embodied a generation that we will never see again". "The Commonwealth family joins together in sorrow and thanksgiving for the loss and life of Prince Philip. God bless from all here in Australia," he said in a statement. New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern also mourned Philip. She noted his close ties to New Zealand including as patron of the Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award, a youth achievement programme named in honour of New Zealand mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary. "In over fifty years of The Award in New Zealand, thousands of young people have completed life-changing challenges through the programme," she said. Israel Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to Prince Philip as he said that he will be 'much missed'. France French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Philip and sent his condolences to the Queen. Philip "lived an exemplary life defined by bravery, a sense of duty and commitment to youth and the environment", he said on Twitter. Germany German Chancellor Angela Merkel said his death filled her with "great sadness", sending her thoughts to the Queen. See | Prince Philip (1921-2021): Lesser-known facts about the Duke of Edinburgh "His friendship with Germany, his straightforward nature and his sense of duty will remain unforgotten," Merkel said. Canada Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called Philip a "a man of great purpose and conviction, who was motivated by a sense of duty to others", in a tribute on behalf of his Commonwealth nation. He will be "fondly remembered as a constant in the life of our Queen", he said. European Union EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen said on Twitter she was "saddened to hear of the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip". "I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to Her Majesty The Queen, the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom on this very sad day." (With AFP inputs)

World leaders mourn Prince Philip's death

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed&nbsp;away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news.&nbsp;Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone&nbsp;a successful heart procedure.&nbsp;

Prince Philip assumed somewhat a secondary position when it came limelight as compared to the Queen but was a strong presence and support to her. They both got married on November 20, 1947 and were at each other's side for more than 7 decades.

Here is the full statement released by Buckingham Palace.

"It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

"His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.

"Further announcements will be made in due course.

"The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss."

The Union Jack on Buckingham Palace was at half mast as a tribute to Prince Philip. UK PM Boris Johnson hailed Prince Philip's 'extraordinary life'.

Also See | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-duke-of-edinburgh-life-in-pictures-376334">Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Life in pictures</a>

Johnson said the Duke of Edinburgh "earned the affection of generations" at home, in the Commonwealth and across the world after serving in the Royal Navy and then over decades as Britain's longest serving royal consort.

"We give thanks, as a nation and a kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," the prime minister said outside 10 Downing Street.

(With AFP inputs)

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news. Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone a successful heart procedure.

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news. Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone a successful heart procedure. Prince Philip assumed somewhat a secondary position when it came limelight as compared to the Queen but was a strong presence and support to her. They both got married on November 20, 1947 and were at each other's side for more than 7 decades. Here is the full statement released by Buckingham Palace. "It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. "His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. "Further announcements will be made in due course. "The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss." The Union Jack on Buckingham Palace was at half mast as a tribute to Prince Philip. UK PM Boris Johnson hailed Prince Philip's 'extraordinary life'. Also See | Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Life in pictures Johnson said the Duke of Edinburgh "earned the affection of generations" at home, in the Commonwealth and across the world after serving in the Royal Navy and then over decades as Britain's longest serving royal consort. "We give thanks, as a nation and a kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," the prime minister said outside 10 Downing Street. (With AFP inputs)

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passes away

Queen Elizabeth's granddaughter Zara Tindall and her husband Mike Tindall welcomed their third child- a baby boy- together on Wednesday. The baby is Queen's 10th great-grandchild and has been named Lucas Philip Tindall. He is the 22nd in line to the British throne.&nbsp; 
 
Zara Tindall, born to the 94-year-old monarch's daughter Princess Anne, delivered her third child on their bathroom floor after they were unable to make it to the hospital in time. 
 
"The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh (Prince Philip) are delighted with the news and look forward to meeting their 10th Great Grandchild when circumstances allow," a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said. 
 
The newest royal, who weighed 8lbs 4oz, has the middle name Philip in honour of Zara's grandfather, Prince Philip, and Mike's own father. 
 
"Arrived very quickly. Didn't make it to hospital. On the bathroom floor," he told 'The Good, The Bad &amp; The Rugby' podcast. 
 
"So yeah, it was running to the gym, get a mat, get into the bathroom, get the mat on the floor, towels down, brace, brace, brace," he said. 
 
"Fortunately the midwife who was going to meet us at the hospital wasn't that far away so she drove up just as we had assumed the posit (position)&nbsp;and the second midwife arrived just after the head had arrived," he added. 
 
Olympic equestrian Zara Tindall, 39, and her husband, 42, have two daughters-&nbsp;seven-year-old Mia and two-year-old Lena. 
 
The birth of their son comes just a few weeks after Zara Tindall's cousin, Princess Eugenie, gave birth to her baby boy- the Queen's ninth great-grandchild. Eugenie is the daughter of the monarch's son Prince Andrew, the Duke of York.&nbsp;

Queen Elizabeth's granddaughter Zara Tindall and her husband Mike Tindall welcomed their third child- a baby boy- together on Wednesday. The baby is Queen's 10th great-grandchild and has been named Lucas Philip Tindall.

Queen Elizabeth's granddaughter Zara Tindall and her husband Mike Tindall welcomed their third child- a baby boy- together on Wednesday. The baby is Queen's 10th great-grandchild and has been named Lucas Philip Tindall. He is the 22nd in line to the British throne. Zara Tindall, born to the 94-year-old monarch's daughter Princess Anne, delivered her third child on their bathroom floor after they were unable to make it to the hospital in time. "The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh (Prince Philip) are delighted with the news and look forward to meeting their 10th Great Grandchild when circumstances allow," a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said. The newest royal, who weighed 8lbs 4oz, has the middle name Philip in honour of Zara's grandfather, Prince Philip, and Mike's own father. "Arrived very quickly. Didn't make it to hospital. On the bathroom floor," he told 'The Good, The Bad & The Rugby' podcast. "So yeah, it was running to the gym, get a mat, get into the bathroom, get the mat on the floor, towels down, brace, brace, brace," he said. "Fortunately the midwife who was going to meet us at the hospital wasn't that far away so she drove up just as we had assumed the posit (position) and the second midwife arrived just after the head had arrived," he added. Olympic equestrian Zara Tindall, 39, and her husband, 42, have two daughters- seven-year-old Mia and two-year-old Lena. The birth of their son comes just a few weeks after Zara Tindall's cousin, Princess Eugenie, gave birth to her baby boy- the Queen's ninth great-grandchild. Eugenie is the daughter of the monarch's son Prince Andrew, the Duke of York.

Queen Elizabeth's granddaughter Zara Tindall welcomes the birth of her third child with husband

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's interview with Oprah Winfrey has irked Buckingham Palace to a great extent. As cases of bullying, snubbing and discontentment are openly being discussed, here is a look at the troubled relationship between Markle and the British Monarchy over the year

The royal mess: Meghan Markle vs The Queen

The annual military parade in central London for Queen Elizabeth II's official birthday has been cancelled for a second year owing to the coronavirus pandemic, Buckingham Palace said Friday. The 'Trooping the Colour' event in June normally features hundreds of personnel from Britain's most prestigious regiments for a centuries-old spectacle of pageantry in front of thousands of spectators.

Last year, because of the health crisis, it was switched to a low-key celebration on the grounds of Windsor Castle west of London, and the palace said the same was likely again.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/queen-elizabeth-iis-cousin-jailed-for-10-months-for-sexually-assaulting-a-woman-in-scotland-castle-365748" hreflang="en">Queen Elizabeth II's cousin jailed for 10 months for sexually assaulting a woman in Scotland castle</a>

"Following consultation with government and other relevant parties it has been agreed that the Queen's official birthday parade, also known as Trooping the Colour, will not go ahead this year in its traditional form in central London," a statement read.&nbsp;

"Options for an alternative parade, in the quadrangle at Windsor Castle, are being considered."&nbsp; Elizabeth, 94, and her 99-year-old husband Prince Philip have for the past year been isolating at Windsor, as their age puts them in a high-risk category for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Philip, who turns 100 in June, this week returned to the castle after four weeks of treatment in two central London hospitals, including a heart procedure. Last year was the first time that Windsor has staged an event to mark a sovereign's official birthday since 1895, when a ceremony was held in honour of queen Victoria.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/queen-elizabeth-receives-covid-19-vaccine-355663" hreflang="en">Queen Elizabeth receives COVID-19 vaccine</a>

It marked Elizabeth's first official public appearance since Britain went into lockdown in March. She celebrated her actual 94th birthday on April 21 without the traditional gun salute, due to the lockdown.

The double birthday tradition was started by King George II in 1748, who wanted to have a summer celebration as his own birthday was October 30. The monarch's official birthday normally occurs on the second Saturday in June

The annual military parade in central London for Queen Elizabeth II's official birthday has been cancelled for a second year owing to the coronavirus pandemic, Buckingham Palace said Friday.

The annual military parade in central London for Queen Elizabeth II's official birthday has been cancelled for a second year owing to the coronavirus pandemic, Buckingham Palace said Friday. The 'Trooping the Colour' event in June normally features hundreds of personnel from Britain's most prestigious regiments for a centuries-old spectacle of pageantry in front of thousands of spectators. Last year, because of the health crisis, it was switched to a low-key celebration on the grounds of Windsor Castle west of London, and the palace said the same was likely again. Queen Elizabeth II's cousin jailed for 10 months for sexually assaulting a woman in Scotland castle "Following consultation with government and other relevant parties it has been agreed that the Queen's official birthday parade, also known as Trooping the Colour, will not go ahead this year in its traditional form in central London," a statement read. "Options for an alternative parade, in the quadrangle at Windsor Castle, are being considered." Elizabeth, 94, and her 99-year-old husband Prince Philip have for the past year been isolating at Windsor, as their age puts them in a high-risk category for coronavirus. Philip, who turns 100 in June, this week returned to the castle after four weeks of treatment in two central London hospitals, including a heart procedure. Last year was the first time that Windsor has staged an event to mark a sovereign's official birthday since 1895, when a ceremony was held in honour of queen Victoria. Queen Elizabeth receives COVID-19 vaccine It marked Elizabeth's first official public appearance since Britain went into lockdown in March. She celebrated her actual 94th birthday on April 21 without the traditional gun salute, due to the lockdown. The double birthday tradition was started by King George II in 1748, who wanted to have a summer celebration as his own birthday was October 30. The monarch's official birthday normally occurs on the second Saturday in June

Queen Elizabeth II's birthday parade cancelled for second year

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip on Tuesday left central London after four weeks of treatment.

The 99-year-old Duke of Edinburgh was seen leaving King Edward VII's Hospital in&nbsp;a BMW car.

Confirming the discharge from the hospital Buckingham Palace said Prince Philip had returned to Windsor Castle in west of London.

Royal aides said he had been treated for an unspecified infection and had "a successful procedure for a pre-existing condition".

"His Royal Highness wishes to thank all the medical staff who looked after him at both King Edward VII's Hospital and St Bartholomew’s Hospital, and everyone who has sent their good wishes," a statement from the palace read.

The prince is understood to be in good spirits.

Prince Philip's month-long stay at King Edward VII's Hospital and the state-run St Bartholomew's, also in London, is his longest stint in hospital.

He was transferred to St Bartholomew's for a heart procedure before returning to private hospital. He was first admitted to hospital on February 16 after advice from his doctor.

Buckingham Palace said initially that he was expected to stay there for a "few days" but stressed his illness was not related to Covid-19.

Later, the palace said he was being treated for an infection, without specifying further.

IN 2011, Prince Philip was treated for blocked coronary artery and had a stent fitted.

Concerns for Philip's health had been high because of his age -- he turns 100 in June -- and came amid the build-up to an explosive interview given by Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, in which she accused the royal family of racism.

(With AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip on Tuesday left central London after four weeks of treatment. The 99-year-old Duke of Edinburgh was seen leaving King Edward VII's Hospital in a BMW car.

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip on Tuesday left central London after four weeks of treatment. The 99-year-old Duke of Edinburgh was seen leaving King Edward VII's Hospital in a BMW car. Confirming the discharge from the hospital Buckingham Palace said Prince Philip had returned to Windsor Castle in west of London. Royal aides said he had been treated for an unspecified infection and had "a successful procedure for a pre-existing condition". "His Royal Highness wishes to thank all the medical staff who looked after him at both King Edward VII's Hospital and St Bartholomew’s Hospital, and everyone who has sent their good wishes," a statement from the palace read. The prince is understood to be in good spirits. Prince Philip's month-long stay at King Edward VII's Hospital and the state-run St Bartholomew's, also in London, is his longest stint in hospital. He was transferred to St Bartholomew's for a heart procedure before returning to private hospital. He was first admitted to hospital on February 16 after advice from his doctor. Buckingham Palace said initially that he was expected to stay there for a "few days" but stressed his illness was not related to Covid-19. Later, the palace said he was being treated for an infection, without specifying further. IN 2011, Prince Philip was treated for blocked coronary artery and had a stent fitted. Concerns for Philip's health had been high because of his age -- he turns 100 in June -- and came amid the build-up to an explosive interview given by Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, in which she accused the royal family of racism. (With AFP inputs)

Prince Philip leaves hospital after four weeks of treatment

Charlie Hebdo, the satirical magazine from France has sparked outrage yet again after showing England’s Queen Elizabeth kneeling on Meghan Markle’s neck.&nbsp;

The depiction is eerily similar to what happened to George Floyd, a Black man who died after Derek Chauvin, a police officer knelt on his neck. His last words, “I can’t breathe” have become synonymous with the Black Lives Matter movement which erupted over the last year. 
 
Recently, the Duchess of Sussex and her husband Prince Harry told Oprah Winfrey that she was subjected to racism within the royal family. Markle also said that she was denied permission to leave Kensington Palace and that she left only twice in four months, which made her suicidal.

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Pourquoi Meghan a quitté Buckingham ? 
 
Retrouvez : 
 
👉 Reportage : l'écologie sonore à l'écoute des animaux 
👉 Enquête sur la véritable histoire du poison chlordécone 
👉 Comment Erdogan traque ses opposants jusqu'en France 
 
En vente demain ! <a href="https://t.co/X7hJHKHPDx">pic.twitter.com/X7hJHKHPDx</a>
— Charlie Hebdo (@Charlie_Hebdo_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Charlie_Hebdo_/status/1369332151708172296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The cartoon was published on Saturday and is titled “Why Meghan quit”. In the cartoon, Markle is shown as saying - “I couldn’t breathe any more”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/lifestyle/news-meghan-markle-complains-about-tv-host-piers-morgan-to-uk-regulator-370121" hreflang="en">Meghan Markle complains about TV host Piers Morgan to UK regulator</a>

The depiction has drawn fire from people across the globe. Many have accused the satirical of downplaying not only the struggles of Meghan Markle but of vilifying the movement against systemic racism in the US, spurred largely in the aftermath of Floyd’s death.

Prince William, the big brother of Prince Harry recently broke his silence on the accusations of racism. “We’re very much not a racist family”, the Prince said. The Queen, too, wasn’t spared in the cartoon. She was depicted as having red eyes, and hairy legs - a representation that has angered many Royal loyalists.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/charlie-hebdo-key-accused-in-2015-paris-terror-attacks-trial-jailed-for-30-years-350284" hreflang="en">Charlie Hebdo: Key accused in 2015 Paris terror attacks trial jailed for 30 years</a>

Charlie Hebdo has been at the centre of debates surrounding freedom of speech and secularism in France, after two brothers attacked the magazine’s headquarters for controversial caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. The attack killed 11 people in 2015, including top editor and some of its leading cartoonists.&nbsp;

Charlie Hebdo, the satirical magazine from France has sparked outrage yet again after showing England’s Queen Elizabeth kneeling on Meghan Markle’s neck. The depiction is eerily similar to what happened to George Floyd, a Black man who died after Derek Chauvin, a police officer knelt on his neck.

Charlie Hebdo, the satirical magazine from France has sparked outrage yet again after showing England’s Queen Elizabeth kneeling on Meghan Markle’s neck. The depiction is eerily similar to what happened to George Floyd, a Black man who died after Derek Chauvin, a police officer knelt on his neck. His last words, “I can’t breathe” have become synonymous with the Black Lives Matter movement which erupted over the last year. Recently, the Duchess of Sussex and her husband Prince Harry told Oprah Winfrey that she was subjected to racism within the royal family. Markle also said that she was denied permission to leave Kensington Palace and that she left only twice in four months, which made her suicidal. Pourquoi Meghan a quitté Buckingham ? Retrouvez : 👉 Reportage : l'écologie sonore à l'écoute des animaux 👉 Enquête sur la véritable histoire du poison chlordécone 👉 Comment Erdogan traque ses opposants jusqu'en France En vente demain ! pic.twitter.com/X7hJHKHPDx — Charlie Hebdo (@Charlie_Hebdo_) March 9, 2021 × The cartoon was published on Saturday and is titled “Why Meghan quit”. In the cartoon, Markle is shown as saying - “I couldn’t breathe any more”. Also read: Meghan Markle complains about TV host Piers Morgan to UK regulator The depiction has drawn fire from people across the globe. Many have accused the satirical of downplaying not only the struggles of Meghan Markle but of vilifying the movement against systemic racism in the US, spurred largely in the aftermath of Floyd’s death. Prince William, the big brother of Prince Harry recently broke his silence on the accusations of racism. “We’re very much not a racist family”, the Prince said. The Queen, too, wasn’t spared in the cartoon. She was depicted as having red eyes, and hairy legs - a representation that has angered many Royal loyalists. Also read: Charlie Hebdo: Key accused in 2015 Paris terror attacks trial jailed for 30 years Charlie Hebdo has been at the centre of debates surrounding freedom of speech and secularism in France, after two brothers attacked the magazine’s headquarters for controversial caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. The attack killed 11 people in 2015, including top editor and some of its leading cartoonists.

Charlie Hebdo stokes controversy by depicting Meghan Markle as George Floyd

Helen Mirren, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth on the silver screen, has recorded an album with fellow actor Damian Lewis to mark the British monarch's upcoming 95th birthday.

Actors Mirren and Lewis record album for Queen Elizabeth's birthday

Buckingham Palace said Tuesday that&nbsp;Queen Elizabeth II&nbsp;is saddened by the challenges faced by her grandson Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, and takes their allegations of racism in the royal family seriously.

The queen and her family promised to&nbsp;address the issues around race that were raised by the couple in an interview with Oprah Winfrey.

"The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan.&nbsp;The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning," the palace said in a statement released on the queen's behalf.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/explosive-interview-meghan-harry-tell-all-on-british-royal-family-368926/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately. Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much-loved family members."

Britain's royal family faced pressure on Tuesday to respond to racism claims by Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, triggering a crisis for the institution not seen since the anguished days of his late mother, Diana.

The couple set off a whirl of speculation about the identity of the senior royal who asked how dark their child's skin would be before he was born.

Meghan, whose mother is black and father is white, also spoke about how she had suicidal thoughts, but failed to receive any support during her time in the royal family.

"That was relayed to me from Harry, those were conversations that family had with him,"&nbsp;Meghan&nbsp;recounted in an interview with Oprah Winfrey aired on CBS late on Sunday.

Meghan&nbsp;declined to say who had aired such concerns, as did Harry. Winfrey later told CBS that Harry had said it was not Queen Elizabeth or her husband Philip.

Harry said his family had cut them off financially and his father Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, had let him down and refused to take his calls at one point.

Buckingham Palace said Tuesday that Queen Elizabeth II is saddened by the challenges faced by her grandson Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, and takes their allegations of racism in the royal family seriously.

Buckingham Palace said Tuesday that Queen Elizabeth II is saddened by the challenges faced by her grandson Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, and takes their allegations of racism in the royal family seriously. The queen and her family promised to address the issues around race that were raised by the couple in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. "The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan. The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning," the palace said in a statement released on the queen's behalf. "While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately. Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much-loved family members." Britain's royal family faced pressure on Tuesday to respond to racism claims by Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, triggering a crisis for the institution not seen since the anguished days of his late mother, Diana. The couple set off a whirl of speculation about the identity of the senior royal who asked how dark their child's skin would be before he was born. Meghan, whose mother is black and father is white, also spoke about how she had suicidal thoughts, but failed to receive any support during her time in the royal family. "That was relayed to me from Harry, those were conversations that family had with him," Meghan recounted in an interview with Oprah Winfrey aired on CBS late on Sunday. Meghan declined to say who had aired such concerns, as did Harry. Winfrey later told CBS that Harry had said it was not Queen Elizabeth or her husband Philip. Harry said his family had cut them off financially and his father Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, had let him down and refused to take his calls at one point.

Queen 'saddened', takes racism claims 'seriously' after Harry-Meghan interview

A few hours before the airing of the controversial tell-all interview of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Royal Family will also be making an appearance before the cameras.

In what is being labelled as an apparent attempt to grab the headlines and divert attention before the tell-all interview, the seniors of the Royal Family will be unitedly showing up together on Sunday to support and praise the efforts of the frontline workers during the pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markles-suits-co-star-patrick-j-adams-defends-her-amid-bullying-allegations-368437" hreflang="en">Meghan Markle's 'Suits' co-star Patrick J Adams defends her amid bullying allegations</a>

Hours before Oprah Winfrey's interview goes on air, Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, Camilla, William and Kate will be appearing in a programme where they will pay tribute to the frontline healthcare workers.

The Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, will complement the "extraordinary determination, courage and creativity" shown by the people of the Commonwealth during the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Stressing on how climate change is an "existential threat" which "knows no borders", he will circle back to the pandemic and imply how it has shown that "human health, economic health and planetary health are fundamentally interconnected".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-reveals-why-she-said-yes-to-the-oprah-winfrey-interview-368399" hreflang="en">Meghan Markle reveals why she said yes to the Oprah Winfrey interview</a>

In the same programme, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will have a conversation with the South African doctor and health activist Zolelwa Sifumba about the basic healthcare rights that everyone should be entitled to, and will also stress how it has taken a pandemic for governments to realise this.&nbsp;

"It’s sad, almost, that it’s taken the pandemic for the public to really back and support all those working on the frontline," Kate will be saying.

However, this will fall in direct contrast with the UK governments recent announcement of approving a just 1 per cent pay raise for the staff of the National Health Service (NHS) of the UK.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-paper-told-to-print-front-page-statement-after-meghan-markles-legal-win-368395" hreflang="en">UK paper told to print front-page statement after Meghan Markle's legal win</a>

UK's Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has been facing extreme criticism and pressure to reconsider this proposal which is being described as a 'slap in the face' and a 'disservice to the frontline workers'.

The appearance has, apparently, been timed considering the airing of the tell-all interview and the recent announcement by Buckingham Palace claiming that they are currently probing allegations against Meghan Markle of bullying the royal staff.

In a recently-released clip from the tell-all interview, Meghan can be heard telling Oprah that "the firm" (the royal family) has been playing an "active role" in "perpetuating falsehoods about us".

"Let’s just call this what it is – a calculated smear campaign based on misleading and harmful misinformation," a statement from the Sussexes claimed.

A few hours before the airing of the controversial tell-all interview of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Royal Family will also be making an appearance before the cameras.

A few hours before the airing of the controversial tell-all interview of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Royal Family will also be making an appearance before the cameras. In what is being labelled as an apparent attempt to grab the headlines and divert attention before the tell-all interview, the seniors of the Royal Family will be unitedly showing up together on Sunday to support and praise the efforts of the frontline workers during the pandemic. Also read | Meghan Markle's 'Suits' co-star Patrick J Adams defends her amid bullying allegations Hours before Oprah Winfrey's interview goes on air, Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, Camilla, William and Kate will be appearing in a programme where they will pay tribute to the frontline healthcare workers. The Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, will complement the "extraordinary determination, courage and creativity" shown by the people of the Commonwealth during the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Stressing on how climate change is an "existential threat" which "knows no borders", he will circle back to the pandemic and imply how it has shown that "human health, economic health and planetary health are fundamentally interconnected". Also read | Meghan Markle reveals why she said yes to the Oprah Winfrey interview In the same programme, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will have a conversation with the South African doctor and health activist Zolelwa Sifumba about the basic healthcare rights that everyone should be entitled to, and will also stress how it has taken a pandemic for governments to realise this. "It’s sad, almost, that it’s taken the pandemic for the public to really back and support all those working on the frontline," Kate will be saying. However, this will fall in direct contrast with the UK governments recent announcement of approving a just 1 per cent pay raise for the staff of the National Health Service (NHS) of the UK. Also read | UK paper told to print front-page statement after Meghan Markle's legal win UK's Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has been facing extreme criticism and pressure to reconsider this proposal which is being described as a 'slap in the face' and a 'disservice to the frontline workers'. The appearance has, apparently, been timed considering the airing of the tell-all interview and the recent announcement by Buckingham Palace claiming that they are currently probing allegations against Meghan Markle of bullying the royal staff. In a recently-released clip from the tell-all interview, Meghan can be heard telling Oprah that "the firm" (the royal family) has been playing an "active role" in "perpetuating falsehoods about us". "Let’s just call this what it is – a calculated smear campaign based on misleading and harmful misinformation," a statement from the Sussexes claimed.

Royal family seniors to appear infront of cameras before Harry-Meghan's interview

Queen Elizabeth II's 99-year-old husband Prince Philip on Monday left the private London hospital where he had spent nearly two weeks to have heart tests and treatment at another hospital, Buckingham Palace said.

Royal officials said the Duke of Edinburgh, as he is formally known, was taken from King Edward VII's hospital to the state-run St Bartholomew's Hospital in the City of London.

Doctors there "will continue to treat him for an infection, as well as undertake testing and observation for a pre-existing heart condition", they added.

"The Duke remains comfortable and is responding to treatment but is expected to remain in hospital until at least the end of the week."

Philip was admitted to King Edward VII's hospital on February 16 as a "precautionary measure" and on the advice of his doctor, after feeling unwell.

But the palace was quick to point out that his admission was not related to Covid-19, and later said he was being treated for an undisclosed infection.

He and the queen, 94, both had the first dose of a Covid vaccination on January 9 because of their age, which puts them in one of the most vulnerable categories.

An ambulance was seen leaving the King Edward VII's hospital late morning on Monday, driving off past banks of photographers and camera crews.

But a police van -- and tinted windows in the ambulance -- blocked sight of who was inside the vehicle, which left from a rear entrance.

Umbrellas were also held up to conceal the gap between the ambulance and the hospital doors.

- Blocked artery - 
Philip turns 100 on June 10 and his already lengthy stay in hospital has raised concerns because of his age, even though he was said to have been comfortable and responding to treatment.

His youngest son, Prince Edward, said last week his father was feeling "a lot better" and was looking forward to returning home.

He thanked members of the public for sending messages of support.

Last Monday, Philip's grandson, Prince William, said the duke was "OK" and being closely monitored by medical staff.

Two days earlier, William's father and Philip's eldest son, heir-to-throne Prince Charles, visited him in hospital but made no comment afterwards.

Philip was able to walk into the hospital unaided when he first was first admitted and arrived using private transport, rather than an ambulance, a source said at the time.

The former naval officer was treated at the same hospital in August 2012 after a recurrence of a bladder infection that laid him low during the queen's diamond jubilee celebrations.

The previous year, he had a stent fitted after suffering a blocked coronary artery.

St Bartholomew's Hospital, near St Paul's Cathedral, is internationally renowned and a centre of excellence for cardiac and cancer care.

Barts Heart Centre is Europe's largest specialised cardiovascular service, according to the hospital's website.

Queen Elizabeth II's 99-year-old husband Prince Philip on Monday left the private London hospital where he had spent nearly two weeks to have heart tests and treatment at another hospital, Buckingham Palace said.

Queen Elizabeth II's 99-year-old husband Prince Philip on Monday left the private London hospital where he had spent nearly two weeks to have heart tests and treatment at another hospital, Buckingham Palace said. Royal officials said the Duke of Edinburgh, as he is formally known, was taken from King Edward VII's hospital to the state-run St Bartholomew's Hospital in the City of London. Doctors there "will continue to treat him for an infection, as well as undertake testing and observation for a pre-existing heart condition", they added. "The Duke remains comfortable and is responding to treatment but is expected to remain in hospital until at least the end of the week." Philip was admitted to King Edward VII's hospital on February 16 as a "precautionary measure" and on the advice of his doctor, after feeling unwell. But the palace was quick to point out that his admission was not related to Covid-19, and later said he was being treated for an undisclosed infection. He and the queen, 94, both had the first dose of a Covid vaccination on January 9 because of their age, which puts them in one of the most vulnerable categories. An ambulance was seen leaving the King Edward VII's hospital late morning on Monday, driving off past banks of photographers and camera crews. But a police van -- and tinted windows in the ambulance -- blocked sight of who was inside the vehicle, which left from a rear entrance. Umbrellas were also held up to conceal the gap between the ambulance and the hospital doors. - Blocked artery - Philip turns 100 on June 10 and his already lengthy stay in hospital has raised concerns because of his age, even though he was said to have been comfortable and responding to treatment. His youngest son, Prince Edward, said last week his father was feeling "a lot better" and was looking forward to returning home. He thanked members of the public for sending messages of support. Last Monday, Philip's grandson, Prince William, said the duke was "OK" and being closely monitored by medical staff. Two days earlier, William's father and Philip's eldest son, heir-to-throne Prince Charles, visited him in hospital but made no comment afterwards. Philip was able to walk into the hospital unaided when he first was first admitted and arrived using private transport, rather than an ambulance, a source said at the time. The former naval officer was treated at the same hospital in August 2012 after a recurrence of a bladder infection that laid him low during the queen's diamond jubilee celebrations. The previous year, he had a stent fitted after suffering a blocked coronary artery. St Bartholomew's Hospital, near St Paul's Cathedral, is internationally renowned and a centre of excellence for cardiac and cancer care. Barts Heart Centre is Europe's largest specialised cardiovascular service, according to the hospital's website.

Queen's husband Prince Philip moved, to undergo heart tests: palace

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