We are all deeply saddened, across the Commonwealth, to hear the news of the Queen's passing. Her strength and stay has inspired us all.
I have been honoured to have had the opportunity to meet the Queen on several occasions throughout her reign, both in the Ribble Valley and in London. When we were privileged enough to have Her Majesty visit Dunsop Bridge, in The Ribble Valley, back in 2006, it was wonderful to see the joy she brought to the crowd. This feeling is something I can recall on every occasion when I have been lucky enough to be in her company and is something I know is felt throughout the country whenever the Queen is present.
To have led the British people over 70 years, throughout war, crisis, and pandemic, is an achievement unlikely to ever be equalled, and to have done so with such a profound sense of duty and commitment is a feat unto itself. The Queen has presided over the business of State for over seven decades, fulfilling the most vital of constitutional roles, presiding over fifteen separate Prime Ministers, from Winston Churchill to Margaret Thatcher to Elizabeth Truss. This work often goes unseen, and whilst the public role of the Queen has been indispensable, this core function, which she has so unfailingly fulfilled, far past where most would, has ensured the continued constitutional continuity and success of our nation.
When the Queen was born, her grandfather and the British Empire ruled over one quarter of the world’s landmass, and over the decades following, she has stood constant, as the stalwart of Britain and Britishness throughout the world, and across the huge social, cultural, and scientific changes which have been seen over the globe.
Her Majesty has been unrivalled in her dedication and service to the British people and the Commonwealth. Her leadership and stoicism will, I know, be deeply missed by all. I have sent my deepest love and condolences to the Royal Family on this ever so mournful day; her legacy will live on.
The Rt Hon Nigel Evans MP
Deputy Speaker of The House of Commons