Unlawful Killing: The Diana Movie Which Will Not be Shown in Britain and in France
I'd be amazed if the monarchy toppled in Britain at the moment. But it's happened in the past. Charles I had his head cut off and we became a republic for years. Then came the restoration and the king was back. But it's not been a secure throne by any stretch of the imagination.
James II had to flee the realm; and was replaced. George I was only crowned after Parliament rejected the 75 people above him in presidence (they were all Catholics). It all nearly toppled again around the time of William III; and George VI was terrified that Britain was on the brink of becoming a republic during his reign too. He refused asylum to the Russian royal family, resulting in their massacre, for fear that it would push the British people over the edge.
I don't imagine that the monarchy will remain as a British institution for many more centuries, but it's secure enough while Elizabeth wears the crown. She's generally regarded with respect here; or, at least, resigned apathy.
However, I do recall the atmosphere when she didn't appear in public in the days after Diana died. The flag over Buckingham Palace stayed up, while the majority of those everywhere else was at half mast. Elizabeth seriously misjudged the national mood and I've never heard her so criticized. But she played a blinder pulling it all back. A true mistress of her game, though she's got the experience to do it!
As for Piers Morgan, I'd heard that he was in the USA being a chat show host. I know him best as the editor of the News of the World. Not a very reputable newspaper; and not a man well respected here accordingly.
So is he doing well over there?
JoHarrington, Aug 26, 2012
