Statement on the death of the Duke of Edinburgh
April 9, 2021
A moment of sorrow for the entire nation, as we mourn the loss of the Duke of Edinburgh. My thoughts are with the entire Royal Family today, but especially the Queen who was married to Prince Philip for over seven decades. It is always a tragedy to lose your partner and I offer my utmost condolences at this difficult time.
A man defined by his lifetime of service, Prince Philip’s selflessness and sense of duty should be an inspiration to us all. Forced to flee his country of birth aged just one, he served his adopted country bravely during the Second World War before serving our Queen as her Consort through a record breaking reign. Although never one to seek the limelight, the Duke of Edinburgh used his position to speak on issues close to his heart, such as the international cooperation through the Commonwealth, the environment, and conservation in his role as President of the World Wildlife Fund. All passions he has passed on to his eldest son, Prince Charles.
Perhaps the legacy he will be most remembered for though will be the scheme bearing his name, which has empowered and equipped young people for over 60 years. Still today, 350,000 young persons per year from all backgrounds are given new skills and encouraged to give back to their local communities. I can think of no better testament to the Duke of Edinburgh than the generations who will continue his legacy of service through the scheme.
As we unite in grief for an incredible man, I think I speak for all my constituents as we reflect on the Duke of Edinburgh’s life by simply saying – thank you.
RIP
