Ed Miliband’s Tribute to Her Majesty The Queen on her Diamond Jubilee

“On behalf of the Labour Party, I want to pay tribute to Her Majesty The Queen on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee.

“She has served this country and the whole of the Commonwealth for the last sixty years with unstinting energy, loyalty, and dedication. Hers has been a life of extraordinary public service. She exemplifies a care for the common good of all to which we can all aspire.

“Throughout her reign she has been tireless, unflinching and unerring in her commitment to the people of Britain, and stoical in the face of personal loss. With Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, at her side, she has serenely witnessed to three generations a selfless dedication to duty.

“For the generation that emerged from the War, her Coronation provided the opportunity to come together in celebration. There was often only one house with a television set on a street, and people crowded round to watch, sharing in community with one another. And at moments like the Silver Jubilee in 1977 the Golden Jubilee in 2002, and now today, she reminds us that we are far more than just disparate individuals and communities: we are a nation with a shared sense of purpose and integrity.

“We celebrate not just The Queen’s reign, but everything that is best about our country and the values we share. The things of which we are rightly proud.

“We are a pragmatic nation, passionate about our traditions.

“We are proud of our home but open to the world.

“We are patriotic but generous of spirit.

“Positive and optimistic.

“Days like the Diamond Jubilee turn neighbours into communities where the young and the old come together in celebration.

“Showing solidarity and community in street parties and concerts all across this country.

“The Queen’s reign is a golden thread that links people across the country and across the generations: united in the respect and genuine affection for Her Majesty. And in the reverence she has inspired in people across this country, across the Commonwealth, and across the world.”