Can the Queen make Political Comments?

[Shakeskweer]

Lizzy doesn't like how things are going!

[LONDONER]

The simple answer is "No". She is not allowed to.

[MisterTinkles]

The "royal" family is not supposed to ever comment on anything "political" or "governmental".
The only thing they are allowed to do, is be "ambassadors of good will".
They can make comments on causes (like Princess Di always did), but as long as it has nothing to do with the British government, they can.


I find it funny that a country as "advanced" as Britain would keep royalty around, wasting billions of pounds a year on them and that crumbling 'palace' they inhabit. I mean, really, they aren't anything more than government pets doing "tricks" in public.

[Bowyn Aerrow]

I have been under the impression that the Throne is a figurehead, one that keeps tabs on Government but allows government to do its thing and reserves a certain right to tell government were to go, were to get off and exactly how to get there should government become too ballsy or problematic, but refrains from public displays of disapproval in most cases allowing the process of 'democracy' to grind its gears as it does.

It is my understanding that the PM presents issues and bills and other governmental things to The Throne for a 'nod' of approval (more or less a symbolic gesture) and that the Throne will voice opinion in private more along the lines of mentor than dictator.

And Prime Minister is a sorta appointed Role, which affects the offices under PM depending on who the Throne appoints to the role of PM. PM is not directly elected to office, the party is elected by a vote, and they appoint a member who is approved by the Throne, should the throne choose to say 'um no, We are not amused by this individual' then the party has to find someone else.

The last time the throne dismissed a PM was in the 1800's. The Throne reserves the right but rarely exercises that right, instead with wisdom allows the processes of government to slowly grind away.

The Queen has always taken an interest in the government and follows its progress, remaining silent (I assume) on most issues in public. I have worked under the impression that should government get too out of hand the Crown can step in, exercise hidden rights and powers to set things to right. Sort of a controlling interest sort of power, a silent partner who reserves the right to call shenanigans should the people ask.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarchy_of...ed_Kingdom lays out a decent explanation of the Her Majesty's direct and indirect powers of Government.


While the current Queen allows stuff to go without a voice of the Throne. The next monarch may actually have a strong voice, depending on who gets the crown and their personal interest or desire to use what powers they still retain to influence government.

[partis]

Well it doesnt stop prince philip ( i reckon behind closed doors the queen spurs philip on ) :p

[Woollyhats]

I imagine she is able to create a political opinion in her mind and voice that, hehe.

It's probably not politically acceptable for her to do so though.

[southbiochem]

Auntie Lizzy needs to give the crown to William and skip Charles..just putting that in the table

http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/cel...6759373663