Queen Elizabeth II reportedly dismissed Northern Ireland’s Orange Marches as “silly marching business” during a private conversation with Ireland’s ambassador to the UK, Ted Barrington, in 2000.
The comments, at a Buckingham Palace garden party on July 25, are revealed in newly released state papers.
Barrington noted that the Queen’s comment was not one-sided, having heard similar sentiments from Her Majesty before.
Despite the convention of keeping royal conversations private, Barrington, apparently wary of the possible backlash, was initially reluctant to share the Queen’s views.
His report, which was not intended for wide circulation, requested limited distribution to prevent any uproar caused by the commentary.
She wasn’t shy about sharing her wild opinions, even if they weren’t exactly “marching orders” for public disclosure.
Recognizing the importance of the release of paramilitary prisoners to the peace deal — such as the controversial release of Michael Stone — Ms comments on the marches have sparked debate.
Rev Mervyn Gibson of the Orange Order weighed in, suggesting the comment was taken out of context.
He questioned whether the “stupid” comment was directed at the protesters, the Parades Commission, or something else entirely.