The Queen last night issued an ‘unprecedented’ plea to the nation to ‘come together’ and strive for a truly united kingdom.
From Balmoral, she acknowledged the rancour of recent days but urged people to put aside their ‘strongly-held’ opinions for the sake of unity.
Her statement, issued after SNP leader Alex Salmond resigned, was also a clear message to politicians trying to appease voters on both sides of the border.
Urging the country to come together ‘in a spirit of mutual respect and support’, she implored them to work ‘constructively for the future of Scotland and indeed all parts of this country’.
The Queen made clear her own deep-seated affection for the Scots, adding: ‘My family and I will do all we can to help and support you.’
The 88-year-old monarch had resisted being drawn into the referendum debate, and senior royal sources said it was an ‘unprecedented statement for an unprecedented time in our country’s history’.
Entitled ‘A Statement From Her Majesty The Queen’, and signed Elizabeth R, it read: ‘After many months of discussion, debate, and careful thought, we now know the outcome of the Referendum, and it is a result that all of us throughout the United Kingdom will respect.
For many in Scotland and elsewhere today, there will be strong feelings and contrasting emotions – among family, friends and neighbours, Daily Mail informs.
