Platinum Jubilee: the Queen and her successors
On February 6, 1952, Elizabeth II ascended the British throne as successor to her father, George IV. Seventy years later, the 95-year-old is now the longest-serving monarch in British history. She spent the day of the anniversary at her country estate, Sandringham House, without making any public appearances. Commentators focus on the news that Elizabeth wants Charles's wife Camilla to be Queen Consort.
A rock in the surf
Corriere del Ticino stresses the importance of Elizabeth's reign over the decades:
“The extraordinary achievement of Elizabeth and her people is the country's retreat to the confines of a small island after centuries of colonial expansion. The collapse of the biggest empire in history threatened to bury Britain under the rubble. The dignity, firmness and majesty of the Queen have been vital to the nation's stability and sense of direction. The English phoenix has been able to rise from the ashes again. ... That is why the few republicans don't stand a chance. After 70 years Elizabeth II's approval rating is at 80 percent. Name another head of state who would have even half that percentage after just seven months.”
Camilla has earned her stripes
The fact that Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, is to become Queen Consort shows that the times have changed and the monarchy is still alive and kicking, The Times rejoices:
“It is no longer a source of stigma, nor should it be, to have divorced. ... She has won admiration for her dedication to public duty and the evident way she cherishes her husband and stepsons. The duchess thereby shows by example and with essential wisdom that she has similar qualities to her mother-in-law. The monarchy ... can survive, and flourish, by showing awareness that privilege entails responsibilities to serve. The duchess exemplifies that ethos, and the nation will rejoice when she is Queen Camilla.”
Best possible start for Charles
Charles will never achieve his mother's stature even with Camilla as queen by his side, The Independent predicts:
“Charles's reign will inevitably be shorter, and he won't be able to rival his mother's accumulation of experience and wisdom. What is a bit unfortunate ... is that he needs - or thinks he needs - to leverage the Queen's authority and popularity for his own good. A few years ago, she had to lead a lobbying campaign to ensure that he would succeed her as head of the Commonwealth. The Queen undoubtedly hopes that the institution she has steered through seven turbulent decades will continue and thrive under Kings Charles, William and George into the 22nd century, and so she's given him the best start she can.”