Her Majesty looks amused, possibly because she'll get the last laugh. It's said, within Royal circles that she's so annoyed about indiscretions revealed in Tony Blair's new book, she plans to withhold granting him an exclusive honour. The former Prime Minister was in line to be appointed to the Order of the Thistle, the highest Scottish honour. Leaders of Scottish descent are almost automatically given the honour after leaving office.
Considering Tony Blair has 'moved on' from the land of his birth, I doubt if he'll be too upset, but then again, such a title would open many more doors for him (and his divine wife Cherie of course), so perhaps he may feel slightly embarrassed.
The Queen's cousin, Lady Elizabeth Anson, said she was sure the 84-year-old monarch would be 'disappointed' at Blair's decision to breach Royal protocol by revealing personal conversations in the Queen's home. It's just etiquette in elite social circles and it's not etiquette in this house either, but then I'm particular as to whom is welcomed here. The Queen is not in a position to be choosy.
For Blair life is about fame and fortune and he's acquired both, by fair means or foul. The renowned Royal biographer Hugo Vikers said last night: "You know when the Queen respects a Prime Minister. She awarded Margaret Thatcher the Order of Merit as soon as she left office." Ouch. It's only three years since Blair resigned so I should think there's still time for her to bestow her gratitude. Wonder when Gordon Brown will called to Holyrood to receive his Order of the Thistle?
I hope the above information answers Leg Iron's question about the Queen's lack of action in connection with 'Tony the Teeth'. Beheading is not longer legal I believe and a Royal snub lasts a lifetime.
Update: According to Sky News Blair is reconsidering attending his book signing in central London after the protests in Dublin. Facing his accusers isn't his strong point is it?
Posts
8 comments:
So her Maj can stand up to be counted when she wishes to...
I don't think Bliar likes people trying to arrest him Rosie!
I'd like to think your photo shows the Queen reacting to Prince Philip's suggestion of where exactly Blair could put the thistle.
Blair is currently vaunting his generosity in wanting to spare the police and public expense and trouble - isn't that nice!
IMHO Blair and the Royal family deserve each other.
No Indyan, bit of a coward isn't he.
Ah Macheath, that's a new one. Pathetic, but a new one.
I don't think it's mutual though Strathturrret.
Looks like she let one go and is just showing sheer relief to get that of her mind.
Oh CH, don't you think it depends on who was standing behind her? ;)
Post a Comment