The Queen has appeared to send a message to politicians over the Brexit deadlock as she spoke of “coming together to seek out the common ground”.
In a speech to the Sandringham Women’s Institute, the monarch emphasised the need for “different points of view” to be respected.
As head of state, the monarch remains publicly neutral when it comes to political matters and does not express her views. But commentators were likely to see her words as a veiled reference the debate on Britain’s departure from the EU.
Similar in tone to her Christmas Day address, the Queen expressed the importance of “never losing sight of the bigger picture”.
During the speech on Thursday, the Queen said: "Reflecting on a century of change, it is clear that the qualities of the WI endure.
"The continued emphasis on patience, friendship, a strong community-focus, and considering the needs of others, are as important today as they were when the group was founded all those years ago.
"Of course, every generation faces fresh challenges and opportunities."
"As we look for new answers in the modern age, I for one prefer the tried and tested recipes, like speaking well of each other and respecting different points of view; coming together to seek out the common ground; and never losing sight of the bigger picture.
"To me, these approaches are timeless, and I commend them to everyone."
Parliament remains deeply divided over any possible way forward for the Brexit process.
Politicians on all sides have engaged in bitter wrangling as the date for Britain leaving the EU - March 29 - draws ever closer.
In her Christmas address the Queen touched on the same theme.
Then, she told the nation: "Even with the most deeply held differences, treating the other person with respect and as a fellow human being is always a good first step towards greater understanding."
The Queen attends a meeting of the her local WI once a year at West Newton village hall as part of her winter stay on her Norfolk estate.
