Queen Elizabeth II’s Secret Thoughts on Brexit, Obama, and Johnson: A Royal Revelation
LONDON, UK – In a stunning disclosure that’s sending ripples through political circles, newly released details from Valentine Low’s book, “The Power and the Palace: The Secret History of the Monarchy and Number 10 Downing Street,” reveal the late Queen Elizabeth II’s surprisingly candid private opinions on pivotal moments and figures in recent British history. This breaking news offers a rare glimpse behind the carefully constructed facade of royal neutrality, impacting Google News searches and sparking intense debate. The revelations, meticulously researched and reported, are already dominating headlines and influencing SEO strategies for news outlets.
The Queen’s Quiet Opposition to Brexit
Contrary to public perception, the Queen privately opposed Brexit, viewing the European Union as a cornerstone of postwar cooperation. A minister who spoke with her shortly before the 2016 referendum recounted her saying, “We should not leave the European Union. It is better to keep the bad known.” Low’s book suggests the Queen saw the EU as vital to maintaining peace and stability after the devastation of two world wars – a perspective rarely voiced publicly. This insight challenges the narrative of royal impartiality and highlights the Queen’s deep understanding of geopolitical history. Understanding the historical context of the EU is crucial; formed in the wake of WWII, its initial goal was to foster economic interdependence and prevent future conflicts.
A Diplomatic Dance with World Leaders
The book details the Queen’s varying relationships with international leaders. While maintaining a polite distance with most, her interactions with Barack Obama and Boris Johnson stand out. In a memorable anecdote, the Queen reportedly asked George Osborne, then Chancellor of the Exchequer, to subtly inform President Obama that it was “time to go to bed” during a 2011 banquet. This playful, yet firm, request underscores the Queen’s commitment to her own schedule and a touch of dry wit.
Conversely, the Queen seemed to find common ground with Boris Johnson, describing him as “a very interesting person” to Sir Malcolm Rifkin. However, her patience was tested when Johnson’s Jack Russell, Jack, killed a goose chick in the Buckingham Palace gardens. The Queen’s pointed remark, “I understand that the Jack Russels do not get along very well with the glasites,” demonstrates her subtle way of holding the Prime Minister accountable.
Navigating the Pandemic and Protecting the Monarchy
The revelations extend to the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing a tense situation where Boris Johnson, despite exhibiting a suspicious cough, was determined to attend his weekly meeting with the Queen. It took the intervention of Dominic Cummings, Johnson’s then-chief advisor, to persuade him otherwise, warning of the potentially catastrophic consequences of infecting the monarch. A clever maneuver by palace secretaries – falsely attributing the cancellation to the Queen – ultimately averted a crisis. This incident underscores the immense responsibility placed on those around the Queen to protect her health and the continuity of the monarchy. The pandemic forced a re-evaluation of royal protocols, accelerating the adoption of virtual engagements and highlighting the importance of safeguarding the Queen’s well-being.
Beyond Politics: A Glimpse into Royal Life
The book also offers charming insights into the Queen’s personal preferences and daily life. She reportedly disliked former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, deeming him “scoundrel” and “completely corrupt.” Former Prime Minister John Major fondly recalled summer visits to Balmoral, Scotland, describing the atmosphere as “very informal” and enjoying barbecues prepared by Prince Philip. He also amusingly noted his dislike of the bagpipes being played at an untimely hour. These anecdotes humanize the Queen, revealing a woman with strong opinions, a sense of humor, and a genuine appreciation for simple pleasures. The tradition of the bagpipes at Balmoral, while charming to some, highlights the unique customs and traditions surrounding the royal family.
The revelations from “The Power and the Palace” provide an unprecedented look into the private world of Queen Elizabeth II, offering a nuanced understanding of her views on key political events and the personalities who shaped her reign. This is a developing story, and Archyde.com will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further analysis and exclusive content on the British monarchy and its enduring legacy.