Queen speaks of economic insecurity

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

The country is experiencing a sharp economic downturn and the monarch described how the festive period would be a "sombre occasion" for many this year.

The Queen's recognition of the difficulties some families will face this Christmas was contrasted by her positive words about those who live "unselfish lives" and use their time, skills or money to help others.

The December 25 message also included a personal tribute to the Prince of Wales, with the Queen highlighting his achievements and praising the work of her son's charities.

Touching footage from a private home movie showing a young Princess Elizabeth with Charles, aged just one, was aired during the broadcast.

The 82-year-old sovereign said in her message: "Christmas is a time for celebration, but this year it is a more sombre occasion for many.

"Some of those things which could once have been taken for granted suddenly seem less certain and, naturally, give rise to feelings of insecurity.

"People are touched by events which have their roots far across the world. Whether it is the global economy or violence in a distant land, the effects can be keenly felt at home."

The message began with informal scenes from the day in June when Prince William was invested as the 1,000th Knight of the Garter by the Queen at Windsor Castle.

Senior royals wearing their lavish Garter robes were shown in footage coming together to pose for an official photograph.