The one-day Royal Visit to Anguilla provided a good deal of interest both among the adult folk and the children of the island, especially those who came into close contact with the Earl and Countess of Wessex. Anguillians have a long history of being described as loyal to the British Crown. Perhaps this is not simply because of their over three centuries of colonial links with the Mother Country. It probably stems from the fact that they are generally a gentle and respectful people, giving honour where it is due, notwithstanding their fierce spirit of independence.
And so there were no cat-calls or demonstrations along the routes of the journey throughout the island as the Earl and Countess were driven by, as rumour suggested that there would have been. This is despite the heated political and constitutional views of a number of persons, and the criticisms of the Governor and the British Government about autonomy issues. Of course persons with certain views might have preferred to stay clear of the official proceedings, but those who were most present, and participatory, appeared to have relished the event and to engage the Royal couple in friendly discourse where possible.
Foster Rogers, in his welcome on behalf of the Government and people of Anguilla, spoke eloquently and, in a veiled manner, put across a pertinent message to the Royal Visitors which, in a way, may have reflected some of the thoughts of the islanders. He hoped that the visit would open a door through which the Earl and Countess “will view the Anguilla of the 21st Century, experience our hospitality and recognise our potential. In turn, through this said portal, I am sure we will acquire your thoughts of and aspirations for us.” In other words, the people of the island wanted the Royal Visitors to understand their situation and need to plan their future with Britain.
The influence of the British Monarch in the realms and territories may be fading, and may even be regarded as old fashion. But there is still a great deal of lingering respect and recognition for the Monarch as Head of the Commonwealth and Queen, and for heirs and successors.
The Earl may have struck a sentimental chord in the minds of some of his listeners when he said that “the Queen’s fervent prayer was that God’s blessings would continue to fall on the people of Anguilla and that success would accompany their endeavours.”He said earlier that she remained just as committed to the people of the realms and territories as she had been sixty years ago when she ascended the Throne.
Whatever has been the bond between Britain and her territories, over the sixty years of the reign of the Queen, there have been many declarations of independence. Notwithstanding that, relations in terms of sovereignty and responsibility have remained extremely cordial as evidenced by the present and continuing Royal visits to a number of independent states holding membership in the Commonwealth of Nations.
One day Anguilla, too, will become independent and the relations between this territory, the United Kingdom and the Monarchy, will hopefully be no less cordial and mutual. It means that even though Anguilla may now be rearing for constitutional advancement, there is no reason for contention and disrespect among any faction of the citizenry.
The Chief Minister and the Government of Anguilla should be commended for the responsible role they have played in facilitating the Royal Visit and staying away from, or perhaps discouraging, any untoward acts by anyone or group of persons that could only have unnecessarily embarrassed Anguilla.
There is a time when civility is paramount and should be practiced without hindrance. When this is the case, all and sundry will feel good like now in the aftermath of the Royal Visit of the Earl and Countess of Wessex.
