Queen Urges Pause For Thought By Leaders



The Queen has stressed the need for political leaders to make "room for quiet thinking and contemplation" in dealing with challenges.

Speaking at the opening of the new session of the Scottish Parliament, the monarch did not make any direct reference to the Brexit vote that has sent shockwaves through the British political system.

But she will no doubt have had it uppermost in mind as she referred to the "remarkable speed" at which events can take place.

While the majority of people across the UK backed splitting from Brussels, most voters in Scotland supported Remain leading to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to state a second independence referendum is "highly likely".

In her speech, the Queen said: "Of course, we all live and work in an increasingly complex and demanding world, where events and developments can, and do take place with remarkable speed and retaining the ability to stay calm and collected can, at times he hard.

"As this Parliament has successfully demonstrated over the years, one hallmark of leadership in such a fast moving world is allowing sufficient room for quiet thinking and contemplation, which can enable deeper, cooler consideration of how challenges and opportunities can be best addressed."

The monarch also referred to the devolution of significant new tax and welfare powers to Holyrood.

She added: "I wish you every success as you prepare to take on these extra responsibilities, and I remain confident that you will use the powers at your disposal wisely and continue to serve the interests of all the people of Scotland to the best of your ability."

In addition to the Queen's address to MSPs, Ms Sturgeon also made a speech in which she underlined Scotland's diversity.

She said: "We are one Scotland and we are simply home to all those who have chosen to live here.

"We are so much stronger for the diversity that shapes us."

In the wake of the UK vote to leave the EU, Ms Sturgeon also pointedly said: "As we celebrate our new beginning, let us look forward with hope and share a deep determination to work tirelessly for the good of all of Scotland's people and in doing so play our part in a stronger Europe and a better world."

The opening ceremony of the fifth session at Holyrood formed part of a day of events, including a historic "Riding" procession down Edinburgh's Royal Mile.

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