Here’s a festive quiz that’s sure to bring the family together.
Take a guess about Prince Andrew:
a) Is he as dense as a fig pudding?
b) Or possibly greedier than Scrooge himself?
c) Maybe more inflated than grandad after having too many Brussels sprouts? Or:
d) All of the above, plus he’s considered a national security threat because of his associations with a supposed spy and a convicted criminal, among other dubious characters, in his pursuit of wealth and prestige?
Last week, it came to light that a close confidant, whom Andrew had appointed as his business adviser with promises of connections to the royal family, was allegedly a spy. Surprisingly, Andrew valued this “alleged spy” so much that another adviser commented, “You sit high up a tree many would love to climb.”
Indeed, Andrew was so fond of his “spy” friend that he invited him to celebrate his 60th birthday. I imagine MI5 is currently putting pressure on Prince Andrew, trying to discover if he shared any sensitive information with this contact. Despite Andrew insisting he ended ties following government advice and that nothing sensitive was discussed, one can’t help but wonder if they’d be as lenient with anyone else associating with someone considered too dangerous to re-enter the UK.
Perhaps our intelligence agents could also question Andrew about who’s funding the £3 million he needs to maintain his residence at Royal Lodge, from which the king considered having him evicted earlier this year.
In a ridiculously grandiose statement released on Friday, Andrew’s spokesperson declared: “He is unable to comment further on matters relating to national security.” Maybe that’s what he should have informed his Chinese acquaintance.
If only the Mablethorpe seal sanctuary ran the world! The volunteers there are tending to numerous little auk seabirds, who were blown off course by Storm Darragh during their southern migration. Chloe Drew, one of the sanctuary’s co-owners, highlighted, “The main care that we can give them – which is the most important – is warmth, security, and an unlimited amount of food.”
Last week’s reports showed over a million older individuals in the UK, also needing warmth and sustenance, are skimping on meals due to financial worries since their winter fuel allowance cuts. Meanwhile, Nato’s Mark Rutte warned that without committing 3% of GDP to defense, our security might be jeopardized by an aggressive Russia, and police chiefs predict even fewer officers on the streets next year to ensure our safety.
The “most essential” warmth, security, and ample food are scarce for many. We’re akin to these little auks, struggling to find our way after being blown off course.
Now, let’s shift the focus. My reluctance to write on demand is well-known, but my mother’s persistent tales about her NHS experience won’t go unheeded. After her hip replacement surgery at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, Essex, just two weeks ago, she insists people should know the reality behind the often-criticized system. Her take? It was nothing short of “marvelous.”
“The nurses and doctors couldn’t have been kinder – the care was amazing,” she shared. And for a woman who holds cleanliness in high regard, the hospital was impressively “spotless.”
This year, the NHS had around 600 million patient interactions. Some may have been less than ideal, but many, like my mother’s, were “marvelous.” As we await the government’s 10-year plan for NHS reform, it’s crucial that amidst calls for change, we don’t overlook the outstanding work that’s happening right now.
And finally, thank goodness for Royal Mail. Their failure to deliver parcels promptly has led to a fine exceeding £10 million, a year after another £5 million fine for similar issues. Ofcom’s rebuke of their “insufficient and ineffective steps” to improve to date is noteworthy.
At least now, when Christmas cards arrive late, well past the festive season, I have a solid reason to point to for any failure—it’s all on Royal Mail.
Alison Phillips, formerly editor-in-chief at Mirror, shares these sentiments.
