THE chair of the Privileges and Procedures Committee has paid tribute to the Queen, describing her as a figurehead who provided unwavering consistency in a world that had undergone radical transformation.
Speaking during yesterday’s special States sitting, St Martin Constable Karen Shenton-Stone said that Her Majesty’s life was one of dignity and diplomacy, and was like no other.
She said that while Her Majesty’s ‘beloved husband, Philip’ was her ‘strength and stay’, she was ours.
‘This Assembly is perhaps best placed to remember Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as a leader, a figurehead who provided unwavering consistency in a world that has undergone radical transformation.
‘She understood the role of a constitutional monarch better than anyone else, and became a beacon of stoic and principled calm, steadfast in her duty and devoted to her role,’ she said.
‘But beneath this unwavering loyalty, she was known for being conscientious, compassionate and caring. She embodied the values that made her such an incredible public servant. She built an unbreakable bond with our Island and it is only right that we celebrate this impeccable achievement in the days ahead,’ she added.
Mrs Shenton-Stone told fellow States Members how she had asked her daughter what the Queen meant to her and received the response that Her Majesty was a ‘feminist icon’.
‘I had never thought of the Queen in these terms but of course she was. She acceded to the throne in 1952, a young woman of 25 surrounded by male courtiers and male politicians, all advising her what to do,’ said Mrs Shenton-Stone.
‘Until 1979 all her Prime Ministers were men and the world leaders were male.
‘She was a young woman with a strong moral compass, a deep-seated sense of duty, an enquiring mind and she held her own, she matured and she shone,’ she continued.
Reflecting on the Queen’s impact on Jersey, Mrs Shenton-Stone said: ‘While we as an Island retain autonomy in government, we owe our allegiance to the Queen in her role as Duke of Normandy – and it is that allegiance which makes our community so deeply saddened by news of her passing.
‘Her Majesty’s reign and her devotion to public service remains an inspiration to many Islanders and to those around the world. Her Majesty undoubtedly formed a special bond with the people of Jersey during her reign and we will miss her presence greatly.’
While Mrs Shenton-Stone said that she never personally met the Queen, she told of ‘fond memories’ where the pair crossed paths.
‘The first was at a Buckingham Palace garden party, accompanying my parents. Years later, when she was visiting the RJAHS, she stopped and smiled at my daughter, who reached out to her while I held her in my arms. I also remember the joy that my mother and father had on meeting her and having dinner on the Royal Yacht Britannia, as representatives of the Island.’
