The Queen...on the Republic Vote
The prepared statement issued by the Queen after hearing the referendum result from "her Prime Minister", John Howard.
"I have heard from the office of the Prime Minister of Australia of the result of the referendum that the proposal to alter the Constitution of Australia to establish a republic has not passed and the existing constitutional arrangements continue.
I respect and accept this result. I have always made it clear that the future of the monarchy in Australia is an issue for the Australian people and them alone to decide, by democratic and constitutional means.
This decision has now been reached by way of the Constitutional Convention in 1998 and subsequently by this referendum.
During this time, I have followed the debate with close attention.
My family and I would, of course, have retained our deep affection for Australia and Australians everywhere, whatever the outcome.
For some while, it has been clear that many Australians have wanted constitutional change. Much of the debate has been about what that change should be.
In the light of the result and on the advice of the Prime Minister, John Howard, I shall continue faithfully to serve under the Constitution as Queen of Australia to the very best of my ability in the future as I have tried to do over the past 47 years.
The Prime Minister has undertaken to keep me informed as the Australian people reflect on this result and Prince Philip and I very much look forward to our visit to Australia in March next year."
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Last modified: May 11, 2002