‘The Queen’s reign is record-breaking but, once it ends, the institution of monarchy really needs reappraising’

• PETER Cave (Some of us will choose not to celebrate this jubilee, May 26) puts the The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in a clear perspective.

The Queen’s reign is record-breaking but, once it ends, the institution of monarchy really needs reappraising.

Besides enjoying vast wealth and privileges, the monarch is free to award titles (and residences) to any family members. Camilla, not even related by blood, is to be the Queen Consort.

The Queen is also due to award Tony Blair, on June 13, the highest-ranking knighthood. This shows how badly the honours system needs reform too.

The monarch is head of the Established (Anglican) Church, so there is religious discrimination, and head of state of 15 overseas territories. Despite the parliamentary system, no law can be passed without the monarch’s consent.

This is quite a shocking idea, given that the monarchy is hereditary. Abolishing the monarchy would not be easy but some significant changes should certainly be made in this (relatively) democratic country.

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED, NW6