MOUNT Isa solicitor Murray Lehmann has lived in London since April.
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He explains to reporter Chris Burns what it means for the British to see Queen Elizabeth II overtake Queen Victoria as longest serving monarch.
How are the British feeling about Queen Elizabeth being the longest serving monarch?
I think the British are very proud of the Queen. It’s hard to reflect on an event while it’s happening but looking at what she’s witnessed is amazing.
She saw World War II, Churchill was her first Prime Minister, she saw the Berlin Wall go up and down, met Nelson Mandela, saw the moon landing and the rise of the internet meme.
What was it like being at Buckingham Palace the day she became longest serving monarch?
Peaceful. The Queen is in Scotland. In terms of tourists I was too early for them. But I was interviewed on camera. Associated Press probably got me. I was asked if I was a fan. I said of her, yes. I believe there will always need to be an apolitical head of state for ceremonial purposes.
What's the good thing about letting a Queen rule compared to a President considering birth doesn't determine your candidacy?
Just that they are apolitical. We don't know her opinion on gay marriage, the Iraq war or day light savings.
It doesn’t concern you a leader so influential for such a long period of time is known so little?
She doesn’t have influence though. She can't say ‘I don't like gay marriage get rid of it’.
Then what’s the point of the Queen?
So it’s not controversial when she visits Australia, or hands out honours. If I was opening a fete there could be a protest if I was a political figure. But if I'm just a ceremonial position, no one cares.
What’s it like living in London after growing up in Mount Isa?
Well, there’s no rodeos or Triple J. The humour is different and everyone is a bit more reserved. It is enjoyable, I was recently called a culture vulture by a colleague because of my interest in historical buildings, places and the arts.
Do the girls love your Aussie accent? I’m visiting London in October so I am personally curious.
Yes, and they enjoy the amusing words like doona and bottlo, which in England means off licence. By the way, gammon is cooked ham here. Let Shaz and Jac know.