Watching the US Inauguration

When prime minister Boris Johnson asked the Queen to prorogue parliament (suspend it for a few weeks) it was clear that the Queen has no independent role to play. For the first time the Queen's real job, which is to do what the PM tells her, was highlighted on prime time TV. Whatever you think about Brexit, it can't be right that the head of state is there for no reason other than do the PM's bidding.

The phrase “ceremonial head of state” is misleading. It suggests that the role is purely for decoration, when it is actually a crucial part of the political system.

Because an elected head of state's neutrality is prescribed by law, they can be genuinely independent of government, acting as an impartial referee of the political system and an extra check on the power of government.

If there's a risk that a new law may breach fundamental rights or principles, for example, a head of state may refer it to the Supreme Court. Or if there is widespread public opposition to a bill, the president may consult the people in a referendum. These powers are rarely used, but vitally important in a democracy.

Aside from these formal functions, a president represents their country on the world stage and takes a leading role at times of national celebration, uncertainty or tragedy. In carrying out these parts of the job, an elected head of state knows they will be held to account for their words and actions, providing a strong incentive to be unifying and inclusive.

If a president attempts to overreach their powers, there's a clear process for removing them from office - unlike a monarch. And a president is paid a straightforward annual salary, usually with a small office and one official residence; the public is not expected to fund their extended family or maintain multiple homes.

Republic calls for a constitutional head of state

Where is that quote from, Grany?

Republic Elegran

www.republic.org.uk/what_we_want

Over time, starting with Magna Carta, powers have been taken away from the monarchy because they abused them. We even chopped off one king’s head and later on there were many revolutions in Europe which saw the end of many monarchies. We only have a monarchy precisely because powers were taken away from them so they are largely symbolic. It can in no way be compared with the American system. What we desperately need is reform of the House of Lords which is undemocratic.

News of the Bernie Sanders crochet doll.

The lady who made it sold it on ebay for 20,000 dollars and gave the money to charity.

www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/jan/27/bernie-sanders-meme-crochet-doll-

but too

Great story Maizie. Well done that lady.

One trouble with Trump's presidency was that he wasn't symbolic, nor neutral to the opposing parties.