1. Motion of condolence and tributes to Her Majesty The Queen

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:11 pm on 11 September 2022.

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Photo of Janet Finch-Saunders Janet Finch-Saunders Conservative 4:11, 11 September 2022

On behalf of the people of Aberconwy and, indeed, my own family, we send our deepest condolences to His Majesty the King and all members of the royal family on their sad and sudden loss.

Throughout my life and those of many of my constituents, we've only known one monarch. She has been an incredible constant; the staff providing stability to people around the world. As Her Majesty stated during her Christmas broadcast in 1957,

'I cannot lead you into battle, I do not give you laws or administer justice, but I can do something else, I can give you my heart and my devotion to these old islands and to all the peoples of our brotherhood of nations.'

Her faith as a Christian was inspirational and true. Wales has also felt that same love and devotion. What greater sign of that than the heartache and sadness so many are now experiencing on our loss? It is emblematic of the love we show to her and the admiration she very much deserves. Our Queen was a shining light and a beacon of hope.

In Aberconwy, it is greatly appreciated that she supported Welsh agriculture and our farmers. What stronger evidence of her love of the Welsh countryside and farming than her service as honorary president of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society? As fellow Members will be aware, it is a tradition of very long standing that the sovereign is intimately associated with the armed forces, and it is therefore a matter of pride for me that my constituency continues to play an important role in training for the army and cadets at Capel Curig and Llanrwst.

Aberconwy is also home to the queen of Welsh resorts, and I will certainly treasure forever my memories of Her Majesty our Queen visiting Llandudno and other parts of Aberconwy on several occasions. I recall the excitement when she graced us with her presence as part of the Silver Jubilee tour in 1977. There was cheering, children waving flags, and a sailing display in the bay, which fascinated her. Children sang in beautiful Welsh to entertain the royal couple. That admiration of our Queen has never diminished.

Whilst we may be at the end of the Elizabethan era, her example will continue to inspire my life and that of my constituents and citizens globally. I am wholeheartedly grateful that King Charles III has now devoted his life to continue with this his dear Mama's role of providing stability and love to people around the world. May God bless you and grant you eternal peace, Ma'am. We, as your true and loyal British subjects, will never forget you. We will support your heirs and successors in your good name. God save the King.