Queen extols virtues of finding common ground during challenging times

The Queen has spoken in favour of individuals seeking “common ground” and “never losing sight of the bigger picture” in a speech to mark the centenary of the Sandringham Women’s Institute (WI).

Echoing the message of her Christmas Day address, the monarch also extolled the virtues of “respecting” the other person’s point of view.

As head of state, the Queen remains publicly neutral when it comes to political matters and does not express her views on issues.

But the Queen’s speech is likely to be interpreted be some commentators as a veiled reference to the toxic mood of the public debate around Britain leaving the EU.

Parliament remains deeply divided over the way forward, with politicians on all sides engaged in bitter wrangling as the date for Britain leaving the EU – March 29 – draws ever closer.

Meanwhile Theresa May is trying to get widespread political backing for a Brexit plan that could command a majority in the Commons after her deal was overwhelmingly rejected by MPs last week.

The Queen, who is president of the Sandringham WI, said: “Reflecting on a century of change, it is clear that the qualities of the WI endure.

“The continued emphasis on patience, friendship, a strong community-focus, and considering the needs of others, are as important today as they were when the group was founded all those years ago.

“Of course, every generation faces fresh challenges and opportunities.

“As we look for new answers in the modern age, I for one prefer the tried and tested recipes, like speaking well of each other and respecting different points of view; coming together to seek out the common ground; and never losing sight of the bigger picture.

“To me, these approaches are timeless, and I commend them to everyone.”

In her Christmas address the Queen touched on the same theme, telling the nation: “Even with the most deeply held differences, treating the other person with respect and as a fellow human being is always a good first step towards greater understanding.”

The Queen attends a meeting of the her local WI once a year at West Newton village hall as part of her winter stay on her Norfolk estate.