Coronation or condemnation? Highland MSPs state their cases
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As Saturday's coronation of King Charles III approaches, the debate heightens in the Highlands over the future or otherwise of the monarchy.
Conservative MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston today hailed the event as "momentous" for the nation, while his Scottish Green colleague at Holyrood Ariane Burgess, condemning the cost of royalty, called for an elected alternative.
Mr Halcro Johnson said:"King Charles III's coronation is a momentous occasion for our nation, celebrating the rich traditions and shared heritage that define us.
“As we witness the crowning of our new monarch, we are reminded of the enduring values of duty, service, and unity that have guided our country for centuries.
"This historic event also offers us another opportunity to remember the remarkable life and service of the late Queen Elizabeth II, a monarch whose reign was marked by her unwavering dedication to our country and her commitment to the well-being of her people. Her legacy will long endure, and her memory will always hold a special place in our hearts.
"As we embark on a new chapter of our nation's long history, l send my best wishes to Their Majesties The King and Queen, and I look forward to their next visit to my region, one I know they have such a personal connection with.
“I hope people across the Highlands and Islands will enjoy the coronation weekend and be inspired by the enduring values that have made us who we are - a proud and resilient people, united in our shared history and our enduring commitment to building a brighter future for all”.
But Ariane Burgess described the oncoming coronation as the perfect time to be challenging the Monarchy.
The Scottish Greens are the only pro-republican Party in the Scottish Parliament and have long-called for an elected head of state and the abolition of the House of Lords.
Ms Burgess said: “We are in the worst cost-of-living crisis for decades, yet, in the days ahead, the UK government will be spending tens of millions of pounds on an extravagant festival of pomp and pageantry.
“It’s no wonder that so many people across the Highlands & Islands are telling me that they think it’s ridiculous.
“With only days to go before the golden carriages take to the streets, it is more important than ever that we talk about our future.
“The fairer, greener Scotland that we want to build is one where power lies with the people and our communities and where any child growing up in the Highlands and Islands knows that they can aspire to the highest office, regardless of which family they come from.
"I want Scotland to be a modern, democratic and independent republic with an elected and accountable head of state. I know that a growing number of people in the Highlands and Islands feel the same.”
