Monarchist League of New Zealand

Today is the official birthday of Her Majesty The Queen. The day is observed with a public holiday, and by the release of the Queen's Birthday honours list.

Unfortunately, on what should be a day of celebration, elements of the news media continue to either ignore the monarchy, or criticise it. Only in a free and democratic society is criticism of the apparatus of government allowed, yet the monarchy is never given credit for preserving (and indeed establishing) this freedom. It is typical of the behaviour of many in the news media that "State" television should today have shown a programme on the Prince of Wales which concentrated on what it called his 'trials'. Radio New Zealand was in the same mood, with an interviewer questioning the future of the monarchy. There were no unbiased programmes on the Royal Family broadcast. It is a pity that the news media doesn't take its lead from public opinion, which remains strongly supportive of the role of the Queen.

This weekend also marks the 60th anniversary of D-Day, the commencement of Allied landings in German-occupied France. Her Majesty The Queen, accompanied by members of the Royal Family, played a prominent role in the commemorations. In the twenty-first century, the Sovereign does not lead her armies in battle. Nevertheless, the connection between the Crown and the Armed Forces remains strong, and vitally important, especially in time of war. This is recognised in all constitutional monarchies. News that Prince William of Wales is considering joining the armed forces does not come as a surprise, as this is in keeping with a tradition which continues to be followed in most, if not all, modern monarchies.

It is a pity that some critics of the monarchy forget, or are ignorant of, the role the Crown has played in times of crisis, as a unifying force, and in its leadership of the national effort. That effort was especially significant in the Second World War. The late King, and his family, including Her Majesty The Queen (then Princess Elizabeth), did great service for the Commonwealth in the face of a struggle for the very freedom and democracy which too many people take for granted today.

Dr Noel Cox

Chairman

Monarchist League of New Zealand Inc.

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