the queen's speech christmas 2021

Queen's Christmas message pays tribute to 'beloved' Philip

• Published 25 December 2021

This video can not be played

To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser.

Watch the Queen deliver her Christmas message for 2021

The Queen has paid tribute to her husband in her first annual Christmas message since his death.

"Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year especially I understand why," she said in a personal message.

She described Prince Philip as her "beloved", and said she felt his presence over the festive period.

The Queen's comments about loss come against the background of another year of the pandemic.

'Final partings'

Speaking beside a photograph of them together, the Queen paid tribute to the late Duke of Edinburgh, her "irrepressible" husband of 73 years.

"That mischievous, inquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him," she said.

"But life of course consists of final partings as well as first meetings.

"And as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas," said the Queen, remembering his "capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation".

• Queen cancels spending Christmas at Sandringham
• A look back at the Royal Family's 2021

'Seeing the Queen is part of our Christmas magic'

The framed photograph in view during the broadcast was taken during their diamond wedding anniversary in 2007 - and the Queen was wearing the same sapphire brooch that appears in the photograph.

She also wore the same brooch, in the form of a chrysanthemum, on her honeymoon in 1947.

This week Buckingham Palace announced plans for a service of thanksgiving for the life of Prince Philip, to be held at Westminster Abbey in the spring.

The Queen's Christmas message felt more personal than expected.

It was really quite touching and a departure from the normal Christmas broadcast, which is typically a reflection on the year.

This broadcast was very personal and one got an impression of the keen sense of loss that she clearly feels for the man who was her husband for 73 years.

There's very little mention of Covid, just a passing reference that it has once again disrupted Christmas plans - including the Queen's.

She had planned to go to Sandringham, her Norfolk estate, but she has stayed at Windsor and been joined by six members of her family today, including the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

This Christmas broadcast is the first time we've had a chance to see the Queen face to face - nine weeks after she cancelled her trip to Northern Ireland for health reasons.

Next year will be significant for the Queen and for the monarchy, because it will be her Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years since she acceded to the throne in February 1952.

After another year of uncertainty with the pandemic, the Queen spoke of the reassuring comfort of family traditions, such as "watching a favourite film where we already know the ending".

Royal aides declined to say what such a favourite film might be - although her grandson Prince William recently pointed to Elf as one of his seasonal favourites.

'Passing the baton'

The speech highlighted the importance of "passing the baton" to the next generation, in a year when the 95-year-old monarch has had her own health problems.

The Christmas broadcast, recorded in Windsor Castle, was the Queen's most extensive appearance since having to withdraw from a series of events during the autumn.

The Queen praised the work of Prince Charles and Prince William at the COP26 climate change summit and their commitment to the "stewardship of the environment".

She looked ahead to the Platinum Jubilee next year, marking 70 years of her reign, which she hoped would bring a "sense of togetherness" and a chance to take stock of the "enormous changes" over those decades.

The broadcast included a community choir, called Singology, that helped to bring people together during the pandemic.

There were glimpses of the royal family at events during the year, but there were no mentions of Prince Andrew, Prince Harry or Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.

• Channel migrants deserve compassion - archbishop
• Armed intruder arrested in Windsor Castle grounds

As a precaution against rising levels of the Omicron variant, the Queen is staying in Windsor Castle, rather than spending Christmas as usual on her Sandringham estate.

Members of her family have been with her on Christmas day, including the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Earlier, a 19-year-old man armed with an "offensive weapon" was arrested in the grounds of Windsor Castle , police said.

Thames Valley Police said the man, who is from Southampton, was found within "moments" of entering the grounds at 08:30 GMT.

He was arrested on suspicion of breach or trespass of a protected site and possession of an offensive weapon. The force said he did not enter any buildings and members of the Royal Family had been informed.

At Sandringham, the Queen would usually have attended a Christmas morning local church service - and in her message the Queen spoke of the "bedrock of my faith".

For a year of such personal and public upheavals, she quoted the Christmas carol, O Little Town of Bethlehem, with the lines: "The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight."

Many members of the Royal Family attended a morning church service at St George's Chapel in Windsor.

Charles and Camilla went to the Christmas Matins service ahead of spending the day with the Queen.

The couple were joined at the chapel in the grounds of Windsor Castle by the Earl and Countess of Wessex and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

It is understood the Queen's absence from the service is a personal choice and follows a precautionary approach seen over the last six months amid rising coronavirus cases.

Meanwhile, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge tweeted that this Christmas would be different to what so many people had planned.

Prince William and Kate wrote: "From those who are alone or having to isolate away from loved ones, to the incredible people supporting our NHS and caring for those most in need - we are thinking of you."

The duchess also surprised an audience at a community carol concert as she took to the piano alongside musician Tom Walker. The service, which was held at Westminster Abbey, was broadcast last night on ITV.

Catherine was joined at the service by Prince William and other members of the Royal Family including Zara and Mike Tindall, Sophie Wessex, and Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi.

Related Topics

• UK Royal Family
• Queen Elizabeth II

More on this story

The Queen cancels spending Christmas in Sandringham

• Published 20 December 2021

• Breaking News
• University Guide
• Meghan Markle
• Prince Harry
• King Charles III

'Christmas can speak to the child within us all': Read the Queen's 2021 Christmas Day speech in full

By Jack Wright For Mailonline

Published: 10:07 EDT, 25 December 2021 | Updated: 10:08 EDT, 25 December 2021

View comments

The Queen has delivered her most personal Christmas message ever today.

Speaking from Windsor Castle, the 95-year-old monarch paid a moving tribute to her ‘beloved Philip’, who died aged 99 in April.

Remarking that ‘one familiar laugh (was) missing’ this festive season – her first without him in 73 years – she described how the Duke of Edinburgh ’s ‘mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him’.

The head of state also reached out to the millions of people affected by the pandemic, and those who have lost loved ones this year.

Read her entire Christmas Day message below.

The Queen has delivered her most personal Christmas message ever today. Speaking from Windsor Castle, the 95-year-old monarch paid a moving tribute to her ‘beloved Philip’, who died aged 99 in April 

The Central Band of the Royal British Legion performing during the broadcast in the grounds of Windsor Castle

The Singology Community Choir performing for the broadcast inside St George's Hall in Windsor Castle

RELATED ARTICLES

Share this article

Although it’s a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones.

This year, especially, I understand why.

But for me, in the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world.

His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation were all irrepressible.

That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him.

But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings – and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas.

We felt his presence as we, like millions around the world, readied ourselves for Christmas.

While Covid again means we can’t celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions.

Be it the singing of carols – as long as the tune is well known – decorating the tree, giving and receiving presents, or watching a favourite film where we already know the ending, it’s no surprise that families so often treasure their Christmas routines.

We see our own children and their families embrace the roles, traditions and values that mean so much to us, as these are passed from one generation to the next, sometimes being updated for changing times.

I see it in my own family and it is a source of great happiness.

Prince Philip was always mindful of this sense of passing the baton.

That’s why he created The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, which offers young people throughout the Commonwealth and beyond the chance of exploration and adventure.

It remains an astonishing success, grounded in his faith in the future.

He was also an early champion of taking seriously our stewardship of the environment, and I am proud beyond words that his pioneering work has been taken on and magnified by our eldest son Charles and his eldest son William – admirably supported by Camilla and Catherine – most recently at the COP climate change summit in Glasgow.

Next summer, we look forward to the Commonwealth Games.

The baton is currently travelling the length and breadth of the Commonwealth, heading towards Birmingham, a beacon of hope on its journey.

It will be a chance to celebrate the achievements of athletes and the coming-together of like-minded nations.

And February, just six weeks from now, will see the start of my Platinum Jubilee year, which I hope will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness, a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes of the last 70 years – social, scientific and cultural – and also to look ahead with confidence.

I am sure someone somewhere today will remark that Christmas is a time for children.

It’s an engaging truth, but only half the story.

Perhaps it’s truer to say that Christmas can speak to the child within us all.

Adults, when weighed down with worries, sometimes fail to see the joy in simple things, where children do not.

And for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce, and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children, of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year.

They teach us all a lesson – just as the Christmas story does – that in the birth of a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential.

It is this simplicity of the Christmas story that makes it so universally appealing, simple happenings that formed the starting point of the life of Jesus – a man whose teachings have been handed down from generation to generation, and have been the bedrock of my faith.

His birth marked a new beginning.

As the carol says: ‘The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.’

I wish you all a very happy Christmas.

Share or comment on this article: Read the Queen's 2021 Christmas Day speech in full 

God bless her majesty

Most watched News videos

• People react to Kate's diagnosis: She's an example for everyone
• Putin claims concert hall attackers tried to escape to Ukraine
• Shocking footage shows aftermath of concert hall shooting in Moscow
• How UK news programmes announced Kate's cancer diagnosis
• The Princess of Wales reveals she has cancer
• Zelensky tears into Putin for blaming Moscow attack on Ukraine
• Joan Collins commends Princess Kate's brave cancer disclosure
• Gunmen 'in camouflage' open fire in Moscow concert hall shooting
• Queen Elizabeth's Comms Sec hails Kate's unprecedented video
• 'I have cancer': Emotional Kate delivers a brave message of hope
• Terrifying moment agitated elephant charges at crowd in India
• Massacre in Moscow: Weapons used by terrorists during killing spree

Comments 134

Share what you think

• Worst rated

The comments below have not been moderated.

The views expressed in the contents above are those of our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of MailOnline.

We are no longer accepting comments on this article.

• Back to top

Published by Associated Newspapers Ltd

Part of the Daily Mail, The Mail on Sunday & Metro Media Group

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

Queen Elizabeth Delivers Her Most Personal Christmas Speech Ever as She Mourns Prince Philip

"That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him," the Queen said in her speech on Christmas Day

Lanford Beard has been with PEOPLE since 2015. In addition to serving as the Senior Digital TV Editor, she has edited for Lifestyle and News verticals across the site. Lanford previously worked at Entertainment Weekly, NBC News and Ralph Lauren, to name a few. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Middlebury College and a Master's of Science degree from Columbia University's School of Journalism.

As Queen Elizabeth reaches the end of a momentous and bittersweet year, her annual Christmas Day message has struck a deeply personal tone.

The broadcast of the speech, which was filmed earlier this month in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle, began with an excerpt of a speech the Queen gave to Prince Philip on their 50th wedding anniversary in 1997.

"Although it's a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why," she said in her speech on Saturday, which comes eight months after the death of the Duke of Edinburgh at the age of 99 .

"But for me, in the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world," she continued. "His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible. That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him.

"But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings; and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas."

The Queen, who canceled the royal family's traditional Christmas gathering at Sandringham this year amid a surge in COVID-19 cases, admitted that the family "can't celebrate as they may have wished."

"We felt his presence as we, like millions around the world, readied ourselves for Christmas. While Covid again means we can't celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions," she said. "Be it the singing of carols (as long as the tune is well known); decorating the tree; giving and receiving presents; or watching a favorite film where we already know the ending, it's no surprise that families so often treasure their Christmas routines.

"We see our own children and their families embrace the roles, traditions and values that mean so much to us, as these are passed from one generation to the next, sometimes being updated for changing times. I see it in my own family and it is a source of great happiness."

The Queen made another personal nod in her speech when she mentioned the birth of four new great-grandchildren this year: Princess Eugenie 's son August, who was born in February; Zara Tindall's son Lucas, who was born in March; Meghan Markle and Prince Harry 's daughter Lili, who was born in June; and Princess Beatrice 's daughter Sienna, who was born in September.

"And for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce, and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children, of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year," she said.

"They teach us all a lesson - just as the Christmas story does - that in the birth of a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential."

The Queen continued to praise Philip's legacy, which includes The Duke of Edinburgh's Award and his environmental work. She said his causes will continue to be championed by Prince Charles and Prince William .

"I am proud beyond words that his pioneering work has been taken on and magnified by our eldest son Charles and his eldest son William - admirably supported by Camilla and Catherine - most recently at the COP climate change summit in Glasgow," the Queen said.

She also mentioned her upcoming Jubilee year, which marks her record-breaking 70 years on the throne.

"And February, just six weeks from now, will see the start of my Platinum Jubilee year, which I hope will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness; a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes of the last seventy years - social, scientific and cultural - and also to look ahead with confidence," she said.

She concluded her speech, "I wish you all a very happy Christmas."

The Queen also paid tribute to her late husband by placing a single framed photo atop her desk from 2007 when the couple celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary at Broadlands Country House in Hampshire.

And on her Christmas red embossed wool shift dress by Angela Kelly, she had pinned the sapphire chrysanthemum brooch she wore on a honeymoon photo call at Broadlands in 1947 and then again 60 years later as they celebrated their landmark 60th anniversary at the same location.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE 's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton , Meghan Markle and more!

Behind the Queen, a Christmas tree "was decorated with over 100 white and gold stars which were specially made by the children and staff of The Royal School, Windsor," according to a release from the palace. "Following the recording of The Queen's Christmas message, the stars were returned to the school where they were hung on the pupils' Christmas tree until the end of term when they took them home as presents for their parents and carers."

Read Queen Elizabeth’s Personal Christmas Day Message About How Much She Misses Prince Philip

“That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him”, the monarch said about her late husband.

Sitting in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle next to a 2007 photograph of her with her late husband, the Queen began by reflecting on how “Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why.”

Dedicating the opening of her speech as a tribute to Philip, who died in April aged 99, the Queen spoke of how his “sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation—were all irrepressible.” She added that Philip’s “mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him” and that “as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas.”

The Queen also used her message to speak of family traditions and mentioned the fact that four of her great grandchildren were born this year . “They teach us all a lesson—just as the Christmas story does—that in the birth of a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential,” she said.

And the monarch also mentioned her Platinum Jubilee coming up in 2022, saying she hoped it “will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness; a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes of the last seventy years - social, scientific and cultural - and also to look ahead with confidence.” The speech, recorded in advance and produced by ITN, was interspersed with images and footage of the royal family including an excerpt of a speech given by The Queen in 1997 on her Golden Wedding Anniversary and other images of her and Prince Philip together through their lives.

Read the Queen’s Christmas message in full below.

Although it’s a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why. But for me, in the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world. His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible. That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him. But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings; and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas. We felt his presence as we, like millions around the world, readied ourselves for Christmas. While Covid again means we can’t celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions. Be it the singing of carols (as long as the tune is well known); decorating the tree; giving and receiving presents; or watching a favourite film where we already know the ending, it’s no surprise that families so often treasure their Christmas routines. We see our own children and their families embrace the roles, traditions and values that mean so much to us, as these are passed from one generation to the next, sometimes being updated for changing times. I see it in my own family and it is a source of great happiness. Prince Philip was always mindful of this sense of passing the baton. That’s why he created The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which offers young people throughout the Commonwealth and beyond the chance of exploration and adventure. It remains an astonishing success, grounded in his faith in the future. He was also an early champion of taking seriously our stewardship of the environment; and I am proud beyond words that his pioneering work has been taken on and magnified by our eldest son Charles and his eldest son William - admirably supported by Camilla and Catherine - most recently at the COP climate change summit in Glasgow. Next summer, we look forward to the Commonwealth Games. The baton is currently travelling the length and breadth of the Commonwealth, heading towards Birmingham, a beacon of hope on its journey. It will be a chance to celebrate the achievements of athletes and the coming-together of like-minded nations. And February, just six weeks from now, will see the start of my Platinum Jubilee year, which I hope will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness; a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes of the last seventy years - social, scientific and cultural - and also to look ahead with confidence. I am sure someone somewhere today will remark that Christmas is a time for children. It’s an engaging truth, but only half the story. Perhaps it’s truer to say that Christmas can speak to the child within us all. Adults, when weighed down with worries, sometimes fail to see the joy in simple things, where children do not. And for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce, and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children, of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year. They teach us all a lesson - just as the Christmas story does - that in the birth of a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential. It is this simplicity of the Christmas story that makes it so universally appealing: simple happenings that formed the starting point of the life of Jesus — a man whose teachings have been handed down from generation to generation, and have been the bedrock of my faith. His birth marked a new beginning. As the carol says, “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight”. I wish you all a very happy Christmas.

Town & Country Contributing Editor Victoria Murphy has reported on the British Royal Family since 2010. She has interviewed Prince Harry and has travelled the world covering several royal tours. She is a frequent contributor to Good Morning America. Victoria authored Town & Country book The Queen: A Life in Pictures , released in 2021. 

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Royal Family News @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

Harry & Meghan's Bios on Royal Family's Site

Timeline of Kate Middleton's Health News

Guy Who Filmed Kate's Farm Shop Video Speaks Out

Princess Diana's Brother Worries for "the Truth"

Staff Tried to Access Kate's Medical Records

Kate Middleton's Neighbor Sees Her "Most Days"

16 Royal-Favorite Brands You Can Shop on Amazon

What Is Going on with Kate Middleton?

Rose Hanbury Denies Prince William Affair Rumors

Who Is Rose Hanbury, Marchioness of Cholmondeley?

Kate Middleton Spotted in Public: Watch Video

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Queen strikes hopeful tone in first Christmas message since Philip’s death

Monarch speaks about the loss of her husband, and encourages nation to see the joy in simple things

The Queen looked back on a year marked by personal, as well as national, grief in her Christmas Day message – the first since the loss of her husband – yet strived to strike a more hopeful tone for the year to come.

As a second year marked by the Covid-19 pandemic drew towards its end, the 95-year-old monarch said she could understand the feelings of all those who have lost loved ones, having been bereaved herself in April. Nevertheless, she looked forward becoming the first British monarch to celebrate a platinum jubilee – 70 years on the throne – in 2022.

“Although it’s a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why,” the Queen said in her annual televised address.

She wore the same sapphire chrysanthemum brooch as on her honeymoon in 1947, and displayed a framed picture of her and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, on their 60th wedding anniversary.

Her Majesty told the nation that she had drawn great comfort from the “warmth and affection” shown in the tributes to the Duke of Edinburgh’s life. “His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation were all irrepressible. That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him,” she added.

She also spoke fondly of Princes Charles and William, and their families, for their shared focus on climate change.

But there was no reference – either on screen or by name during the nine-minute broadcast – to her middle son Prince Andrew or Harry and Meghan; the trio having recently stepped back from royal duties.

The personal message is particularly apt given the upheaval many families have experienced during another year affected by coronavirus. The Queen acknowledged the impact of the Omicron variant, having cancelled her regular trip to Sandringham in order to spend Christmas at Windsor.

She was joined on the day by Charles and Camilla, Clarence House announced.

The Queen, whose speech was recorded in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle, said: “While Covid again means we can’t celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions.”

She added: “I am sure someone somewhere today will remark that Christmas is a time for children. It’s an engaging truth, but only half the story. Perhaps it’s truer to say that Christmas can speak to the child within us all. Adults, when weighed down with worries, sometimes fail to see the joy in simple things, where children do not.

“And, for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children; of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year.”

The Queen also hinted at the prospect of reuniting with loved ones in the new year.

She said: “February, just six weeks from now, will see the start of my Platinum Jubilee year, which I hope will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness … and also to look ahead with confidence.”

And she added that, next summer, the nation will host the Commonwealth Games. “The baton is currently travelling the length and breadth of the Commonwealth, heading towards Birmingham, a beacon of hope on its journey. It will be a chance to celebrate the achievements of athletes and the coming-together of like-minded nations,” she said.

The Queen concluded: “I wish you all a very happy Christmas.”

The speech was broadcast hours after the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrived for their annual morning service at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, without the Queen.

It is understood the Queen’s absence from the service is a personal choice and follows a precautionary approach seen over the past six months.

The service, which is ticketed, is attended by residents of the Windsor estate and members of the chapel congregation.

Charles and Camilla were joined by the Earl and Countess of Wessex and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

• Queen Elizabeth II
• The Observer

Most viewed

The Queen moves nation with 'beloved Philip' tribute in Christmas Day speech

The duke of edinburgh passed away in april, aged 99.

The Queen paid a moving tribute to her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh , as she delivered her annual Christmas message to the nation.

"Although it's a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why," she said. "But for me, in the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world."

Prince Philip passed away at the age of 99 on 9 April, with a socially-distanced funeral taking place eight days after his death at St George's Chapel in Windsor.

READ:  Prince Charles and Camilla joined by the Wessexes and Gloucesters on Christmas Day - best photos

WATCH: The Queen pays tribute to Prince Philip in Christmas speech

Her Majesty spoke lovingly about her late husband, adding:  "His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible. That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him. But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings; and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas. 

"We felt his presence as we, like millions around the world, readied ourselves for Christmas. While Covid again means we can’t celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions. Be it the singing of carols (as long as the tune is well known); decorating the tree; giving and receiving presents; or watching a favourite film where we already know the ending, it’s  no surprise that families so often treasure their Christmas routines."

The Queen and Prince Philip's diamond wedding anniversary portrait

The Queen, 95, dressed in an embossed wool shift dress in Christmas red by Angela Kelly and the sapphire chrysanthemum brooch, spoke from the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle. 

The then Princess Elizabeth wore the chrysanthemum brooch for a photocall on her honeymoon with the Duke of Edinburgh, at Broadlands, Hampshire in 1947. Her Majesty also wore the brooch in photographs taken at the same venue to mark their diamond wedding anniversary. 

A single photograph was placed next to the monarch as she recorded her speech, which showed an official portrait of the Queen and Prince Philip taken in 2007 at Broadlands, Hampshire to mark their diamond wedding anniversary.

MORE:  Kate Middleton joins Tom Walker for festive piano performance after finding 'great comfort' in music in lockdown

MORE:  Duchess of Cornwall chooses unexpected Christmas photo to thank royal fans

Her Majesty also gave special mentions to the new additions to her family this year, as she has welcomed four great-grandchildren in the past 12 months. 

"And for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce, and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children, of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year," she said.

Princess Eugenie gave birth to her first child August in February, while Mike and Zara Tindall welcomed their third child, Lucas, in March. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced the arrival of daughter Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor in June, while Princess Beatrice had daughter, Sienna Mapelli Mozzi, in September.

MORE:  Harry and Meghan used this clever trick to protect Archie and Lili’s privacy

Prince Charles and Camilla attended church in Windsor on Christmas Day

The Queen has spent Christmas Day at Windsor Castle for the second year running due to the pandemic. She was joined by the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall on the day. 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spent the festive period at their country abode, Anmer Hall, in Norfolk this year with the Middleton family. 

The monarch traditionally spends Christmas with members of her family at her Sandringham estate, which sees the royals out in force as they attend church on 25 December, but plans were cancelled amid rising COVID-19 cases.

The Queen usually remains at her Norfolk abode until the anniversary of her father King George VI's death on 6 February, which in 2022, will mark the 70th year of her reign.  

The Queen's speech in full:

"Although it's a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why. But for me, in the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world.

"His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible. That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at  the end as when I first set eyes on him. But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings; and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas. 

"We felt his presence as we, like millions around the world, readied ourselves for Christmas. While Covid again means we can’t celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions. Be it the singing of carols (as long as the tune is well known); decorating the tree; giving and receiving presents; or watching a favourite film where we already know the ending, it’s  no surprise that families so often treasure their Christmas routines.

The Wessexes at the church service in Windsor

"We see our own children and their families embrace the roles, traditions and values that mean so much to us, as these are passed from one generation to the next, sometimes being updated for changing times. I see it in my own family and it is  a source of great happiness. 

"Prince Philip was always mindful of this sense of passing the baton. That's why he created The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, which offers young people throughout the Commonwealth and beyond the chance of exploration and  adventure. It remains an astonishing success, grounded in his faith in the future.   

"He was also an early champion of taking seriously our stewardship of the environment; and I am proud beyond words that his pioneering work has been taken on and magnified by our eldest son Charles and his eldest son William - admirably supported by Camilla and Catherine - most recently at the COP climate change summit in Glasgow. 

"Next summer, we look forward to the Commonwealth Games. The baton is currently travelling the length and breadth of the Commonwealth, heading  towards Birmingham, a beacon of hope on its journey. It will be a chance to celebrate the achievements of athletes and the coming-together of like-minded nations.  

"And February, just six weeks from now, will see the start of my Platinum Jubilee year, which I hope will be an opportunity for people everywhere to  enjoy a sense of togetherness; a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes  of the last seventy years - social, scientific and cultural - and also to look ahead  with confidence. 

"I am sure someone somewhere today will remark that Christmas is a time for children. It's an engaging truth, but only half the story. Perhaps it's truer to say that Christmas can speak to the child within us all. Adults, when weighed down with worries, sometimes fail to see the joy in simple things, where children do not.  

"And for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce, and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children, of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year.  

"They teach us all a lesson - just as the Christmas story does - that in the birth of  a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential. It is this simplicity of the Christmas story that makes it so universally appealing: simple happenings that formed the starting point of the life of Jesus — a man  whose teachings have been handed down from generation to generation, and have been the bedrock of my faith. His birth marked a new beginning. As the  carol says, 'The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight'. 

"I wish you all a very happy Christmas."

Make sure you never miss a ROYAL story! Sign up to our newsletter to get all of our celebrity, royal and lifestyle news delivered directly to your inbox.

• Prince Philip
• Instagram Stories
• British Royals

More Royalty

8 times the royals have apologised in public

Who is the Duke of Gloucester? Family ties to late Queen explained

King Charles and Queen Camilla share heartfelt message on Mother's Day

King Charles still uses the late Queen's home hack that went viral

Princess Kate hires late Queen's former equerry as right-hand man

Who are Queen Elizabeth's children? All about King Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew & Prince Edward

Podcast Article King Charles 'really upset' the late Queen with criticism of her parenting skills

Prince Harry seen for the first time since debate over Princess Lilibet's name

The queen receives incredibly poignant gift to mark prince philip's 100th birthday, prince philip's most memorable quotes and one-liners, prince philip, 99, leaves hospital after four-week stay, the queen's christmas day speech to be 'particularly personal' in year of prince philip's death.

Queen’s Christmas speech in full as Monarch pays tribute to Prince Philip

The Monarch paid tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh as she marked her first Christmas since his death

• 15:10, 25 DEC 2021

Sign up to our free email to get all the latest royal news and pictures

We have more newsletters

The Queen shared her sympathies for "those who have lost loved ones" as she marked her first Christmas since Prince Philip's death.

In her annual address, the 95 year old Monarch paid tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh , who died at the age of 99 in April this year .

“His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible," she said . “That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him.

“But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings – and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas."

For the second year running, the Queen cancelled the usual Sandringham celebrations and is instead staying at Windsor, where she and the Duke spent his final Christmas last year.

See the Queen's 2021 Christmas speech in full below...

“Although it’s a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones.

“This year, especially, I understand why.

“But for me, in the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world.

“His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible.

“That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him.

“But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings – and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas.

“We felt his presence as we, like millions around the world, readied ourselves for Christmas.

“While Covid again means we can’t celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions.

“Be it the singing of carols – as long as the tune is well known – decorating the tree, giving and receiving presents, or watching a favourite film where we already know the ending, it’s no surprise that families so often treasure their Christmas routines.

“We see our own children and their families embrace the roles, traditions and values that mean so much to us, as these are passed from one generation to the next, sometimes being updated for changing times.

“I see it in my own family and it is a source of great happiness.

“Prince Philip was always mindful of this sense of passing the baton.

“That’s why he created The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which offers young people throughout the Commonwealth and beyond the chance of exploration and adventure.

“It remains an astonishing success, grounded in his faith in the future.

“He was also an early champion of taking seriously our stewardship of the environment, and I am proud beyond words that his pioneering work has been taken on and magnified by our eldest son Charles and his eldest son William – admirably supported by Camilla and Catherine – most recently at the COP climate change summit in Glasgow.

“Next summer, we look forward to the Commonwealth Games.

“The baton is currently travelling the length and breadth of the Commonwealth, heading towards Birmingham, a beacon of hope on its journey.

“It will be a chance to celebrate the achievements of athletes and the coming-together of like-minded nations.

“And February, just six weeks from now, will see the start of my Platinum Jubilee year, which I hope will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness, a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes of the last 70 years – social, scientific and cultural – and also to look ahead with confidence.

“I am sure someone somewhere today will remark that Christmas is a time for children.

“It’s an engaging truth, but only half the story.

“Perhaps it’s truer to say that Christmas can speak to the child within us all.

“Adults, when weighed down with worries, sometimes fail to see the joy in simple things, where children do not.

“And for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce, and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children, of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year.

“They teach us all a lesson – just as the Christmas story does – that in the birth of a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential.

“It is this simplicity of the Christmas story that makes it so universally appealing, simple happenings that formed the starting point of the life of Jesus — a man whose teachings have been handed down from generation to generation, and have been the bedrock of my faith.

“His birth marked a new beginning.

“As the carol says: ‘The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.’

“I wish you all a very happy Christmas.”

• Prince Philip
• Queen Elizabeth II
• Most Recent

The Queen's Christmas Broadcast 2021 Honors the Late Prince Philip

The queen reflected on life's "final partings and first meetings."

For her 2021 Christmas Broadcast , filmed in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle, the queen sat in front of her Christmas tree at a desk featuring one framed photo, a picture of herself and the Duke of Edinburgh at their 60th wedding anniversary celebration in Broadlands, Hampshire in 2007.

She wore a red embossed wool shift dress by Angela Kelly, and donned the same sapphire chrysanthemum brooch that she has on in the 2007 picture, which she received as a gift in 1947 and wore for a photocall on her honeymoon.

The broadcast began with an excerpt of a speech the queen gave to Prince Philip on their 50th wedding anniversary in 1997, after which the monarch spoke directly on her memories of Prince Philip, mentioning "his sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation."

After addressing how the pandemic surge changed holiday plans this year, Her Majesty also spoke on the happy memories of the past year for her family, including the births of her four new great -grandchildren , while looking ahead to the future and the promise of new beginnings.

Read the queen's Christmas Broadcast for 2021 in full:

Although it’s a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why.

But for me, in the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world. His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible. That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him.

But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings; and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas.

We felt his presence as we, like millions around the world, readied ourselves for Christmas. While Covid again means we can’t celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions. Be it the singing of carols (as long as the tune is well known); decorating the tree; giving and receiving presents; or watching a favourite film where we already know the ending, it’s no surprise that families so often treasure their Christmas routines. We see our own children and their families embrace the roles, traditions and values that mean so much to us, as these are passed from one generation to the next, sometimes being updated for changing times. I see it in my own family and it is a source of great happiness.

Prince Philip was always mindful of this sense of passing the baton. That’s why he created The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which offers young people throughout the Commonwealth and beyond the chance of exploration and adventure. It remains an astonishing success, grounded in his faith in the future.

He was also an early champion of taking seriously our stewardship of the environment; and I am proud beyond words that his pioneering work has been taken on and magnified by our eldest son Charles and his eldest son William - admirably supported by Camilla and Catherine - most recently at the COP climate change summit in Glasgow.

Next summer, we look forward to the Commonwealth Games. The baton is currently travelling the length and breadth of the Commonwealth, heading towards Birmingham, a beacon of hope on its journey. It will be a chance to celebrate the achievements of athletes and the coming-together of like-minded nations.

And February, just six weeks from now, will see the start of my Platinum Jubilee year, which I hope will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness; a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes of the last seventy years - social, scientific and cultural - and also to look ahead with confidence.

I am sure someone somewhere today will remark that Christmas is a time for children. It’s an engaging truth, but only half the story. Perhaps it’s truer to say that Christmas can speak to the child within us all. Adults, when weighed down with worries, sometimes fail to see the joy in simple things, where children do not.

And for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce, and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children, of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year.

They teach us all a lesson - just as the Christmas story does - that in the birth of a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential.

It is this simplicity of the Christmas story that makes it so universally appealing: simple happenings that formed the starting point of the life of Jesus — a man whose teachings have been handed down from generation to generation, and have been the bedrock of my faith. His birth marked a new beginning. As the carol says, “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight”.

I wish you all a very happy Christmas.

Quinci LeGardye is an LA-based freelance writer who covers culture, politics, and mental health through a Black feminist lens. When she isn’t writing or checking Twitter, she’s probably watching the latest K-drama or giving a concert performance in her car.

The Latest from Your Favorite Royals

Harry and Meghan Speak on Kate’s Cancer Diagnosis

Celebrities React to Kate’s Cancer Announcement

What Is Preventative Chemotherapy?

All About Princess Kate’s Cancer Diagnosis

What Kind of Cancer Does King Charles Have?

Princess Kate Sends Message to Others With Cancer

Charles: “So Proud” of Kate Amid Cancer Diagnosis

Kate on William’s Support Amid Cancer Treatment

Princess Kate on Telling Her Kids About Her Cancer

Where in the World Is Kate Middleton?

Kate “Is Focused on Making a Full Recovery”

The Royal Watcher

Queen’s christmas speech 2021.

The Queen’s annual Christmas Speech was broadcast at 3pm GMT on Christmas Day in the UK and the Commonwealth. In her 69th Christmas Broadcast, which was recorded in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle earlier this month, and produced by ITN, the Queen reflected on a difficult year, most notably the Death and Funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh . The Queen wore her Sapphire Chrysanthemum Brooch , worn on her Honeymoon and 60th Wedding Anniversary. Members of the Royal Family are spending Christmas with the Queen at Windsor Castle .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Royal Watcher (@the_royal_watcher)

Although it’s a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why. But for me, in the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world. His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible. That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him. But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings; and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas. We felt his presence as we, like millions around the world, readied ourselves for Christmas. While Covid again means we can’t celebrate quite as we may have wished, we can still enjoy the many happy traditions. Be it the singing of carols (as long as the tune is well known); decorating the tree; giving and receiving presents; or watching a favourite film where we already know the ending, it’s no surprise that families so often treasure their Christmas routines. We see our own children and their families embrace the roles, traditions and values that mean so much to us, as these are passed from one generation to the next, sometimes being updated for changing times. I see it in my own family and it is a source of great happiness. Prince Philip was always mindful of this sense of passing the baton.  That’s why he created The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which offers young people throughout the Commonwealth and beyond the chance of exploration and adventure. It remains an astonishing success, grounded in his faith in the future. He was also an early champion of taking seriously our stewardship of the environment; and I am proud beyond words that his pioneering work has been taken on and magnified by our eldest son Charles and his eldest son William – admirably supported by Camilla and Catherine – most recently at the COP climate change summit in Glasgow. Next summer, we look forward to the Commonwealth Games. The baton is currently travelling the length and breadth of the Commonwealth, heading towards Birmingham, a beacon of hope on its journey. It will be a chance to celebrate the achievements of athletes and the coming-together of like-minded nations. And February, just six weeks from now, will see the start of my Platinum Jubilee year, which I hope will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness; a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes of the last seventy years – social, scientific and cultural – and also to look ahead with confidence. I am sure someone somewhere today will remark that Christmas is a time for children. It’s an engaging truth, but only half the story. Perhaps it’s truer to say that Christmas can speak to the child within us all. Adults, when weighed down with worries, sometimes fail to see the joy in simple things, where children do not. And for me and my family, even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas, as we have the chance to reminisce, and see anew the wonder of the festive season through the eyes of our young children, of whom we were delighted to welcome four more this year. They teach us all a lesson – just as the Christmas story does – that in the birth of a child, there is a new dawn with endless potential. It is this simplicity of the Christmas story that makes it so universally appealing: simple happenings that formed the starting point of the life of Jesus — a man whose teachings have been handed down from generation to generation, and have been the bedrock of my faith. His birth marked a new beginning.  As the carol says, “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight”. I wish you all a very happy Christmas.

Share this:

2 thoughts on “ queen’s christmas speech 2021 ”.

I wish Merry Christmas to the entire Royal Family

Absolutely lovely! The Queen told us of her deep loss of her husband, but gave us a lesson on life at the same time. In spite of losses, Christmas is a time of rebirth and of acknowledgment of all the good things we have in our lives. She reminded us that there are many things to be grateful and thankful for. She has so much wisdom, we are lucky to still have her amongst us!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from the royal watcher.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Politics live: Government statement expected on 'China hack'; Sunak making nuclear announcement

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden is expected to tell parliament Beijing is behind a wave of cyber attacks, while Rishi Sunak visits Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria. Listen to the latest episode of Politics at Jack and Sam's as you scroll.

Monday 25 March 2024 11:19, UK

• Government statement expected on China
• What do we know about Electoral Commission hack?
• Analysis:  Why China is on the parliamentary agenda
• PM making 'nuclear' announcement
• Deborah Haynes: This is anything but soft and cuddly
• Home Office launching social media campaign abroad
• Adam Boulton: Quitter politicians - an impossible job or the wrong people at the wrong time?
• Politics at Jack and Sam's: Sanctions expected over China democracy and security fears
• Listen to the latest episode above and  tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live updates by Tim Baker

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called China an "epoch-defining challenge" today.

This is a repeat of his previous language, and does not go further as some had called for - like designating China a threat.

Mr Sunak said: "We've been very clear that the situation now is that China is behaving in an increasingly assertive way abroad, authoritarian at home, and it represents an epoch-defining challenge, and also the greatest state-based threat to our economic security.

"So, it's right that we take measures to protect ourselves, which is what we are doing."

He would not be drawn on the hacking announcement due to be made by Oliver Dowden, but said: "When it comes to cyber, we have the National Cyber Security Centre, which is world leading.

"Indeed, when I'm out and about across the world, other leaders want to learn and talk to us because they believe that our capabilities in this country are very strong."

Despite the exact date of the general election remaining unknown, both Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak are out on the campaign trail today.

The prime minister is visiting Barrow-in-Furness, a town in Cumbria that is home to BAE Systems and the UK's nuclear submarines.

He is there announcing new investment in the nation's nuclear deterrence.

Meanwhile, Labour leader Sir Keir has visited north Wales to reiterate his promise to make the UK a clean energy superpower.

It also gives Sir Keir a chance to meet with the newly minted leader of Welsh Labour, Vaughan Gething.

Attributing a cyber attack to another country involves a "lot of steps", an expert has said in the wake of allegations that China hacked the Electoral Commission. 

Luke de Pulford is executive director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China - IPAC - a transnational organisation that scrutinises China.

He says the UK would not have made the allegation "without being sure".

"I think we can confidently say that they're correct," he told Sky News. 

On today's announcement, Mr de Pulford says he hopes it creates a "sea change" in the UK's attitude towards China.

He says the attitude in the UK - through protests on British soil, the democratic clampdown in Hong Kong, and forced labour in Xinjiang - is avoiding doing "anything to upset the [People's Republic of China]".

Regulator Ofgem has announced it's considering the future of its price cap.

The options on the table including a "more dynamic" limit, as well as "time-of-use dependent unit rates to encourage consumer flexibility".

The price cap was introduced at the beginning of 2019 by regulator Ofgem, with the aim of preventing the millions of households on expensive variable tariffs from being ripped off.

Ofgem says it needs to adapt the system, as more households are switching onto "time-of-use" rates, which makes the universal cap "unsuitable for everyone".

Tim Jarvis, Ofgem's director general of retail and markets, said: "While the price cap played an important role in protecting consumers from the loyalty penalty that existed before its introduction, the energy market is changing as we move to net zero, and we recognise the systems we have in place may need to change too."

The sage around the sale of The Daily Telegraph is continuing, with a deadline being extended into next month.

Culture Secretary Lucy Fraser has been looking into the proposed acquisition of the newspaper by RedBird IMI, a vehicle backed by the United Arab Emirates.

Ms Frazer had set a deadline for the evidence to be submitted by 25 March - today.

However, she has just announced an extension to Tuesday 2 April, next week.

This has come "further to a request from one of the parties".

Ultimate Investment Holdings LTD, another corporation, has also been informed of the changes.

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about different political parties.

Labour is still sitting comfortably on a roughly 22-point lead, averaging at 44.5% in the polls, with the Tories on 22.8%.

In third is Reform UK on 11.7%, followed by the Lib Dems on 9.6%.

The Green Party stands at 6%, and the SNP on 2.9%.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

One year ago, Rishi Sunak made five pledges for voters to judge him on.

The prime minister met his pledge to halve inflation by the end of 2023.

However, he is faring less well with his other pledges.

With the general election approaching, how is Mr Sunak doing on delivering his other promises?

You can see the progress for yourself below.

Today's statements on China are said to revolve around a hack of the Electoral Commission... but what do we know about the incident?

When did it happen?

The hack started in August 2021, but details of what happened were revealed late last year.

The infiltration was only identified on October 2022 - meaning hackers had almost a year undetected in the commission's systems.

What data were accessed?

The names and addresses of people who registered to vote between 2014 and 2022 were seen by cyber attackers.

At the time, there were 43 million people on the electoral register in England and Wales.

While the commission stated most of the data was publicly available anyway on the electoral roll, around 28 million people opt out of having their data available free online and so likely had their privacy compromised.

What was the response?

The commission's chief executive, Shaun McNally, said the nature of the UK's system would make it hard to influence the actual process of an election, although conceded his body needed to "remain vigilant" to threats.

Mr McNally added that significant measures had been taken to improve the organisation's IT systems.

A spokesperson for the National Cyber Security Centre said defending the UK's democracy "remained a priority".

The Information Commissioner's Office said it was investigating what happened.

Read more from Faye Brown 's original article here:

Labour's Jo Stevens, the shadow Wales secretary, is speaking to Kay Burley this morning for the opposition.

She is asked about the developments today - specifically around expected sanctions against Chinese actors in the wake of the Electoral Commission hack.

Ms Stevens says the reports are "really worrying" - and that the government will lay out further details in a statement this afternoon.

"It's absolutely right then that there are steps taken to protect our democracy," she says.

"We need a new strategy - which we have long been calling for - to tackle state threats with closer working between the Home Office and the Foreign Office to coordinate the UK strategic response to this growing threat, both to domestic security and to our electoral freedoms."

She also tells Sky News that her party wants to avoid a "cliff-edge" of 3,000 job cuts at the Port Talbot steel works, and that her party plans to invest £3bn in a green steel fund if it comes to power.

Sky News approached the Chinese embassy in the UK yesterday for a comment on the developments here, but there was no reply.

As we've been reporting, China has been accused of accessing the personal details of 40 million voters in a hack on the Electoral Commission last year.

The country's foreign affairs spokesperson has now been speaking in Beijing.

Lin Jian said: "Cybersecurity is a global challenge. China is one of the major victims of cyberattacks, and has always been resolute in stopping and cracking down on all kinds of malicious cyber activities, according to the law.

"China has been advocating that all countries jointly deal with cyber attacks traceability issues, which are highly complex and sensitive, through dialogue and cooperation.

"When investigating and defining cyber incidents, there must be sufficient objective evidence, rather than smearing without factual basis, not to mention linking cyber security to political issues. 

"We hope that all parties will stop spreading false information, and effectively adopt a responsible attitude to jointly maintain peace and security in cyberspace."

As is typical for these addresses, it is in "diplomatic" language - but it is clear China is not happy about being accused by the UK of being behind cyber attacks.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free