An abiding image of Prince Philip’s funeral will be that of the Queen standing masked and alone at the Windsor Castle ceremony.
All of the power, wealth, pomp and ceremony in the world made no difference.
She was simply a wife in mourning, saying a final goodbye to a husband she loved for 73 years.
And like thousands of others over the last year, the Queen was forced to endure that sad moment without family to hold on to.
The Duke of Edinburgh, who died aged 99, was interred in the Royal Vault at St George’s Chapel after a service attended by just 30 guests.
He has been a constant presence at the 94-year-old Queen’s side during her record-breaking reign which began in 1952.
She will now continue her work alone as we attempt to rebuild from the greatest crisis since she took the throne.
In uncertain times, her commitment to public duty can always be relied on.
Her dignity in grief deserves respect and sympathy, not because she is the Queen but because she is a decent human being suffering the same heartbreak as any of us.
Dismal deals
Former finance secretary Derek Mackay said nationalising Ferguson Marine would deliver taxpayers value for money.
It came after £100million was flushed down the toilet on two ferries which have never been delivered. But the first thing he did was to appoint businessman Tim Hair as a £790,000-a-year “turnaround director”.
There is little evidence of much having been turned around.
Still no ferries and millions of pounds continue to disappear down the River Clyde.
The cost could pale in comparison, however, to a potential £360million hit the Scottish Government may have to take on deals struck with Sanjeev Gupta and Lex Greensill for steel and power plants.
Today, we have uncovered details of yet more cosy meals at posh restaurants involving Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing and Gupta’s representatives.
Regardless of whether incompetence or something more sinister is to blame for these failings, future generations will pay for the shortcomings of politicians not equipped to negotiate competently with the private sector.
