King Charles proves that the monarchy retains real power

The monarchy has just had its best week since the King came to the throne.

- ANTHONY SELDON

Instead of headlines about Prince Andrew and Prince Harry, we have had real, tangible, undeniable proof that the institution has practical value to Britain.

Would President Trump have come to visit Britain this week if it had just been an invitation to see Keir Starmer? No one knows the answer, but it's very unlikely he would have done so, or been so willing to treat Britain as a "much favoured nation".

No one could fake the president's warm words about the royal family or his obvious glee, bordering on humility in places, at finding himself their guest in Windsor Castle, a structure three times older than his own country. His enthusiasm extends far beyond the King and Queen to embrace the Prince and Princess of Wales. Earlier presidents have been dazzled by Hollywood: Trump is dazzled by the House of Windsor.