Charlie is no-one's darling

Sep 7 2007

THE defining moment from Diana's memorial service came early. Crowds watching guests roll up cheered when the Queen arrived - but fell silent when Charles came into sight.

Not a hand clap was heard - evidence, I would suggest, that the British have seen through this dithering man and feel they owe him nothing in the way of loyalty.

Prince William is now in his prime. He and Harry have completed their military training, for which they both earned the respect of their peers.

Now is the time for Charles to stand down. He has the woman he yearned for, the proceeds of the Duchy of Cornwall to fund a millionaire lifestyle, a home in the Cotswolds, Clarence House in London, and a castle in Scotland. Never can so much have been bestowed on one whose actions merit so little.

Were Charles to announce he was ducking the succession in favour of William, the nation would rejoice.

And with the Queen still sufficiently vigorous to guide her grandson in the ways of sovereignty, we would feel the good ship Britain was well steered.

Charles will be an old man when he totters throne-wards if, as is hoped, the Queen has inherited her mother's longevity.

William on the other hand would be at his best, popular as Diana's son, dynamic enough to give the House of Windsor young ideas and a shot in the arm.