Royal engagement is wonderful news for Britain - EXPRESS COMMENT
HUGE congratulations to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's interview after engagement
There is nothing that brings us together like a Royal wedding and in this particular case the entire country has been willing Harry to find a bride.
From the moment we saw him following his mother’s coffin at the age of just 12, there has been a palpable goodwill towards Harry and a strong desire to see him settled.
In the intervening years we have seen him show his bravery as a soldier.
We are delighted by this new stage in his life.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have announced their engagement
While the Royal family adapts with the times it remains a symbol of continuity, a living and breathing reminder of our long, rich history
And we praise him in his choice of bride. From what we know of her, Meghan is an enterprising woman, commendably interested in good works.
She is also proof positive that the Royals can adapt and flourish in changing times.
When Harry’s father got married it was unthinkable that his bride should have a past, let alone be a divorcee.
That is no longer the case and that is all to the good.
Meghan’s mixed-race background would also have ruled her out as a potential spouse in less enlightened times.
The fact that no one has batted an eyelash shows how the Royal family has changed.
However, while the Royal family adapts with the times it remains a symbol of continuity, a living and breathing reminder of our long, rich history.
A new chapter has begun, not only for Harry but for us all.
-----------------------------------------------
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson
We need a strong defence
There was some controversy over the appointment of Gavin Williamson to the post of Defence Secretary but he has lost no time in demonstrating that he understands what is important in his job.
He has called for higher defence spending, saying that the two per cent target should be a floor, not a ceiling.
Amen to that.
It is inexplicable that when we live in a time of conflict in every area of the globe we should even consider cutting defence.
From Russia to the Middle East, everywhere there are regimes that threaten us. And the nonsense of paying out vast amounts in foreign aid while cutting back on the means to defend ourselves hardly bears thinking about.
At least Williamson seems to understand that.
-----------------------------------------------
From writing letters to sending emails
Penpals to lifelong chums
Isn't it heartening to hear about Barbara Finch and Elizabeth Martin, penpals for 70 years.
Life has changed a lot over those decades and these days the communication is by email but the friendship endures, a good example to us all.