Dean Russell, Member of Parliament for Watford, said: “The Coronation will be an absolute historic moment in our lives. A time to reflect on our history as we celebrate within our communities and look towards our future with a new Monarch. Even though the Monarch has a new role in the Royal Family, many of us have grown up with His Majesty and know of the exceptional service he has given to our country over the decades. The King has been known for his sheer dedication and commitment to public services and his commitment to charitable causes.
“I was honoured and delighted to meet His Majesty King Charles III in Parliament this week and took the opportunity to thank him for giving my Tips Bill Royal Assent. It was a wonderful moment which I will always cherish.
“The Coronation Weekend gives us the perfect opportunity to spend time with family, friends and our communities. Many people will also use this time to volunteer and support local charities and good causes. In Watford, we have a thriving volunteer community who give their all and will be looking forward to this special time to help and celebrate with others.
“As the MP for Watford, and as a local resident, I am looking forward to seeing what King Charles III’s reign will bring to our community. I believe his focus on sustainable development and environmental conservation will be particularly important for a town like Watford, which is situated close to London and has a unique mix of urban and rural areas.
“I am confident that the King will lead with compassion and with a clear understanding of the issues we face as a country. A strong figurehead who will reflect our ethic diversity of modern Britain.
“I am feeling very positive as we approach the new reign of a new Monarch; but will also pause to give thanks and pay tribute to the late Her Majesty The Queen.
“I wish the King all the very best in his new leadership role. His reign will begin a new era of hope and promise and I believe he will be a great Leader and figurehead for the whole of the United Kingdom.”
Sarah Green, Liberal Democrat MP for Chesham and Amersham, said: “King Charles’ coronation marks the beginning of a new era.
“For decades, the King has displayed an unwavering commitment to public service. In championing young people, the environment and farming he was ahead of his time. His decision to support voluntary service with Monday’s ‘The Big Help Out’ affirms his commitment to using his platform for good. I look forward to seeing how this historic institution adapts and modernises, just as it did throughout the reign of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
“The notion that we should rid ourselves of such public servants would be the true expression of knowing a notional cost without understanding the inherent value.
“While individual views on the Royal Family may differ, the past year has demonstrated their unique ability to bring the country together. This Bank Holiday weekend has something to offer for everyone, and I hope we are all able to enjoy it with family, friends and neighbours.”
Jamie Stone, Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, commented: “When the King was the Prince of Wales, and also the Duke of Rothsay, he came to visit Scrabster Harbour in Caithness. Oh boy, did he take the trouble with everyone there. This has always been typical of him. He takes an amused and quizzical interest in every person he meets. If a King is to have a gift, this is the one that will stand him in good stead.
“I remember a stray American tourist who just happened to be there during the Prince’s visit. A rather curmudgeonly man, he had abandoned his fellow passengers on their coach tour of Caithness. But when he caught sight of who stepped out of the Royal car, I honestly thought the poor man would fall flat forwards from the weight of his jaw sagging.
“Charles being Charles took the time to everyone, including the American tourist. “Gee, wait till I tell the folks back in Seattle!”, was his amazed comment to me once His Royal Highness had departed on his way to his other engagements.”
Ian Paisley, the Democratic Unionist Party Member of Parliament for North Antrim , added: “ I wish King Charles III God’s richest blessings. May his reign be marked with peace and contentment. I have had the honour of meeting him on several occasions and his interest in Northern Ireland and it’s people is wonderful.”
Joy Morrisey, Conservative Member of Parliament for Beaconsfield, added: “The British Monarchy represents the very best of Britain. From the numerous charities the Royals support to the ceremonial role it plays in our constitution, the Monarchy is part of the fabric of our society here in the UK.
“Not only does the Coronation play an important part in maintaining constitutional tradition, but it serves as a reminder to the world about just how great Britain is.
“I wholeheartedly support the Monarchy and know that they will continue to play as vital a role in this country’s future, just as they have done since 1603.”
While Daniel Kawczynski, speaking exclusively to parliamentnews.co.uk, paid tribute to the emotional intelligence of both the King and Queen, who exude “warmth”.
The Shrewsbury and Atcham MP also spoke about his hopes for the continued role of the Commonwealth, “which covers 56 countries and a third of the World’s population”. He said: “Having left the European Union, the Commonwealth should evolve into a free trade bloc, scrapping tariffs and boosting the economies of all its members.”
And Labour Leader Sir Starmer MP, told the Telegraph that the coronation of King Charles III, felt like, “…the beginning of a new era. It will not just be a celebration of a new King, Charles III, but also of the monarchy’s remarkable ability to bring together friends, family and neighbours during these moments of national significance.”
Adding: “This weekend will see us face the future. Just as at the last coronation in 1953, the country feels in need of both change and stability. Now, as then, the British people are desperate for some good news after a prolonged spell of hardship and profound suffering. No one can doubt that the King’s reign begins in difficult times.
“But just as the 1950s saw Britain’s social and economic fortunes transform, so can this be a moment of optimism and national renewal. I have never accepted the pessimism of those who saw the late Queen’s passing as somehow emblematic that our best days are now behind us.
“Instead, I believe we now have a chance to build on her reign and create an even better future. This weekend’s celebrations can be the first words in that next chapter of our history.”
Read the article in full here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2023/05/05/sir-keir-starmer-king-charles-coronation-britain-future/
Concluding the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak commented: “The Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla will be a moment of extraordinary national pride.
“Together with friends from across the Commonwealth and beyond, we will celebrate the enduring nature of our great monarchy: its constancy, devotion to duty, and service to others.
“No other country could put on such a dazzling display – the processions, the pageantry, the ceremonies, and street parties.
“But this is not just a spectacle.
“It’s a proud expression of our history, culture, and traditions.
“A vivid demonstration of the modern character of our country.
“And a cherished ritual through which a new era is born.
“In the Abbey where monarchs have been crowned for almost a thousand years, representatives of every faith will play a central role for the first time.
“And in a fitting tribute to the spirit of service that will define the Carolean Age, people across our country will help their communities with thousands of acts of kindness.
“So let’s celebrate this weekend with pride in who we are and what we stand for. Let’s look to the future with hope and optimism. And let’s make new memories, so we can tell our grandchildren of the day we came together to sing: God Save The King.”
ENDS