Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her 80th birthday today. Image source: Agencia Brasil

I'd just like to take a couple of minutes to give my best wishes to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on today her 80th birthday. I was delighted to hear the other day that she will not abdicate the throne at any time in the forseeable future.

Looking at elected presidents, whether in France or the USA (with the possible odd exception of the Irish Republic), their partisan allegiance immediately renders them divisive. I think her role as head of state is often undervalued in modern times and looking at elected heads of state around the world makes me glad Her Majesty reigns over us still.

Apparently I'm not the only one either, in a recent poll over two-thirds of respondents favoured retention of the monarchy. Throughout her reign she has conducted herself with a dignity that has won her much respect throughout the Commonwealth and the wider world, both in the 16 nations of which she is Queen and beyond.

Follow up:

Role Model
I read this story before but thought it worth repeating, telling how a prank call from a Canadian radio DJ to the Queen had 'backfired', showing Her Majesty in a very positive light and doing no small amount of good to the Monarchist League of Canada's cause. (I was surprised and impressed that she was fluent in French). The prank also backs up what Margaret Thatcher said about their weekly meetings when Thatcher was Prime Minister: "Anyone who imagines that they are a mere formality or confined to social niceties is quite wrong; they are quietly businesslike and Her Majesty brings to bear a formidable grasp of current issues and breadth of experience."

Birthday Celebrations
Yesterday she opened the newly-refurbished broadcasting house for the BBC, and visited the Royal Institute for International Affairs, both organisations, like Queen Elizabeth, born in 1926 and the day before she hosted a lunch attended by 99 citizens born on the same day - 21st April 1926 (including one Fermanagh woman). Her birthday also sees a new portrait unveiled, celebrations in Devon and Cornwall (of all the counties!) as well as in Birmingham. More locally, the TA gave a 21 gun salute at Hillsborough Castle. Queen Elizabeth herself celebrating at Windsor Castle with family today before heading to a private dinner hosted by Prince Charles this evening. She will also celebrate her official birthday on 17th June.

Thank You
Queen Elizabeth is a fantastic ambassador for her country and, as one Nigerian businessman remarked "the best salesman Britain has." Hereditray positions are very unfashionable in today's world, but the simple truth is that this one works and Her Majesty has done a fantastic job, conducted herself with the greatest of decorum and dignity and done a great service to this great nation. So happy birthday Your Majesty and long may you reign.