Peter Hunt

Britain needs to hear from the Queen

The silence is striking, not yet deafening.

Some of the royals have engaged with the one issue that preoccupies us all. Prince William, in a video message, has launched an appeal (in collaboration with the National Emergencies Trust) to raise funds for local charities responding to the impact of coronavirus. And Harry and Meghan, via Instagram, have announced an initiative to help people cope with the mental stress caused by the pandemic. According to one report, one of the ways the couple are keeping well during their self-imposed isolation in Canada, is by asking their staff to wear latex gloves.

Their contributions to our global fixation with Covid-19 makes the absence of any word from the Queen all the more notable. Prince Charles may well be champing at the bit to address us, but the heir must take his lead from his mother.

She is innately cautious and will never be rushed.

Written by
Peter Hunt
Peter Hunt is a commentator on the monarchy and constitutional issues. He is a former BBC diplomatic and royal correspondent. He tweets at @_PeterHunt

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