Does A New PM Herald G'Bye To The Monarchy Down Under?
Written by Joanne Leyland
Saturday, 24 November 2007
Page 3 of 3
Of course, wisdom surely tells us that such
polls can be dramatically altered by injecting the emotive and still
somewhat controversial phrases phrases 'King Charles' and 'Queen
Camilla'.
Would the polls incorporate the same negative results if the
personalities were removed from what is actually a constitutional
matter rather than a public vote on the present day incumbents of
Clarence House or (ultimately) Buckingham Palace?
Comment: The Governor-General is the Australian Head of State and received as such when overseas.
The Queen is our Sovereign.
In 1907, the High Court ruled that the Governor-General is the Constiutional Head of the Commonwealth of Australia.
The Governor-General is not instructed by The Queen of Australia in the exercise of his or her duties.
But owing allegiance to The Queen, and being appointed by her to execise all the powers of the Crown, he or she provides leadership beyond politics and is a crucial check and balance against any abuse of the the powers of the politicians.
Name: Monika
Comment: A tour of Australia could prove to be a reality check for C&C. No wonder they are in no hurry...
Name: Joanne
Comment: Hi valmae
That's essentially what the royal family themselves have said in the past.
We've certainly come a long way from the heady days of the 1950s when many thousands turned out on the streets to welcome the Queen to Australia (and from my own era I remember the amazing bicentennial celebrations of 1988 when Charles and Diana, the Queen and Philip and Andrew and Sarah all made separate tours).
I tend to fear that the personalities or standing of the figures behind the Crown may overshadow any serious constitutional debate.
Joanne
Name: valmae
Comment: Joanne: I think it is very much a matter for the Australian people to decide.
At present their Head of State resides in the UK and visits occasionally. The Governor General is there permanently, but needs to consult the Head of State and act for her on ceremonial occasions. For a great nation having to make do with a stand in is not ideal.
No wonder they are in no hurry...
