His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

Jackie Doyle-Price Excerpts

Monday 12th April 2021 Commons Chamber

[Jackie Doyle-Price (Thurrock) (Con)]

It is a pleasure to pay tribute to His Royal Highness Prince Philip. We have heard lots about his distinguished naval career, but the sea remained in his blood for the rest of his life. I thank him for all the support he gave the maritime sector and particularly highlight his contribution to bringing the Cutty Sark to Greenwich. It is now a permanent landmark and will be his lasting legacy here in London. I also refer to the fact that he came down to Thurrock to visit our then-newest port, London Gateway, in 2011 at his own request because of his genuine interest in ships and the sea. We are very grateful for all his support for the sector.

Prince Philip lived by the principle “Never complain, never explain”, which, given his good sense of humour and ability to put people at ease, was often taken out of context by some elements of our press. However, the Great British public reached their own view of Prince Philip—they loved him. I genuinely hope that the outpouring of affection we have witnessed over the past few days is of real comfort to Her Majesty the Queen and the royal family as they mourn his loss.