Ivonne. (Not too sure which Michael that was a response to.) I'm pragmatic about this: in principle I thing hereditary positions are an anachronism in a 21st century democracy but as you've said in your other post elsewhere the thought of president Blair or Boris does make one think perhaps the status quo isn't so bad, and, in any case, republics still have state funerals; perhaps Charles will slim down and modernise the royal family? As an atheist I'm also uncomfortable with a head of state who is also head of the Church of England, particularly as I believe recent surveys indicate that the UK is now predominantly secular? I agree, you're correct, many of our current ills are caused by recent government policies - austerity, failure to invest sufficiently in renewable energy sources, Brexit to name a few. However, the monarchy and royal family are also the figurehead of inequity based on their position by virtue of birth and power underpinned by wealth from sources of dubious historical provenance. Bankers' bonuses are an example of great inequity but in many ways I don't blame the bankers as they're just taking advantage of a culture created the UK's government - both it's parliamentary and monarchy arms. Also, some dealers have elevated themselves to the ranks of the wealthy from the east London markets so perhaps that's an example of levelling up, even if not very equitable overall? Similarly, oil companies are benefitting becaise of world ecconomics and the only reason for not seeking a contribution from them seems to be political dogma. I can also see why many are annoyed at the expense of a state funeral when others are struggling to pay for food and heating.Of course, if one looks at the royal family on a personal level it's sad a 96 year old mother, grandmother, great grandmother has died, and they wish to grieve (although it can't have been entirely unexpected, I'm sure the family was given more accurate information on the Queen's health than the rest of us). Others may want to grieve but while I feel sympathy for the family I have to admit ambivalent feelings relating to someone I've never met and spoken with, and that I only know from a public, managed, facade - although I know those who have met her have usually liked her. As someone who had met her, I thought Jeremy Corbyn summed it up well: "My thoughts are with the Queen’s family as they come to terms with their personal loss, as well as those here and around the world who will mourn her death.I enjoyed discussing our families, gardens and jam-making with her. May she rest in peace."
Michael Ixer ● 557d