In death, as in life, Elizabeth II has been a unifying force for her country. For all the political rancour of recent years, this week has revealed a country at ease with itself. People of all political persuasions have come together to show their respect – in Scotland just as much as in England. It has been a reminder of what a force for good a monarch can be when he or she devotes their life to service.
After the Queen’s coffin was transferred from Balmoral Castle to Holyroodhouse, up the Royal Mile to St Giles’ Cathedral, members of the public lined up to see it as it lay in state. Nicola Sturgeon was as effusive in her tributes as any Westminster politician. The new King was heard by the Scottish parliament with respect.
The affection of the Scottish people for Queen Elizabeth II, and their support for the institution of the monarchy, should not come as a surprise. In the independence referendum of 2014 the ‘Yes’ campaign was at pains to make clear that the ‘Queen of Scots’ would remain head of state come what may. Even those who see Scotland as a prisoner of the Union seem reluctant to extend that narrative to the monarchy.
Monarchical ties between England and Scotland are more strongly embedded than political ones
It was, after all, the Scottish royal house which took over when James VI of Scotland acceded to the English throne. The only bone of contention was over the name, Elizabeth II. As Sturgeon has rightly pointed out, the late Queen was the first Elizabeth to reign over Scotland, so north of the border it was not unreasonable to call her Elizabeth, Queen of Scots. Such a discrepancy does not arise with the new King, who is the third King Charles both north and south of the border.
Comments
Join the debate for just £1 a month
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for £3.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just £1 a monthAlready a subscriber? Log in