His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

Jonathan Gullis Excerpts

Monday 12th April 2021 Commons Chamber

[Jonathan Gullis (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Con)]

On behalf of the residents of Stoke-on-Trent North, Kidsgrove and Talke, I wish to convey my heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and the entire royal family, who have lost a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Throughout His Royal Highness’ long life, Prince Philip was a shining light, with a stiff upper lip and a sense of humour no more obviously displayed than when he allegedly referred to Stoke-on-Trent as “ghastly” in 1997. In 1978, His Royal Highness opened the YMCA headquarters in Hanley—a national award-winning YMCA now that has the fire, passion and ideas to challenge the status quo, very much in His Royal Highness’ style.

As an ex-teacher and someone who, rather inadvertently, failed to do the Duke of Edinburgh Award but who joined many a school trip with students taking part in it, I pay tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh scheme, which gave students, particularly in urban areas such as Stoke-on-Trent, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn new skills, take part in teamwork and build the self-confidence they need to have a better future. However, for all His Royal Highness’ great achievements, his greatest will be his selfless duty, devotion and love for Her Majesty. It is a lesson that many of us can learn from. May he rest in peace. God save the Queen.