Dear John,

Well, that was quite something! I know that when I get home tomorrow people will ask me what it was like to be at Westminster Abbey for the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla so here are some quick thoughts.

The NZ delegation had an early start to coronation day. We were in the lobby of our hotel at 7am and driven near to the Abbey then went through checks similar to airport security, before walking to the Abbey. We were inside around 8am and it was wonderful to watch dignitaries arrive in their finery and just soak up the atmosphere of that ancient and special building.

For me, the big stand out of the occasion was the magnificent music. It was quite a collection of different types of  music and the resonance of it in the Abbey was beautiful and memorable.

It was an interesting ceremony – some parts dating back through the centuries, but also some modern touches. Altogether, it had a lot of  heft and real gravitas. You certainly knew that you were witnessing one small step in the great arc of British history. It all went flawlessly which I hope is a good omen for the King’s reign. The British weather did its thing but didn’t dampen the celebratory mood outside – or inside the abbey.

It was a pleasure and a privilege to be part of such an historic moment.

The previous day I caught  up with Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Michael Gove, and we talked for an hour on many topics but particularly education in which we both believe it’s essential to lift standards. I also met Minister without Portfolio and Chairman of the Conservative Party  Greg Hands. The real benefit of foreign visits is the opportunity to deepen relationships  so I made the most of my chances!

That evening, and not that far from the Abbey, but certainly at a different place culturally, I thoroughly talking to a big bunch of Kiwis who took the opportunity to come and say hello at a London pub. I lived overseas for 18 years and always liked connecting with Kiwi life and I hope all those who turned out to the Two Chairmen pub felt the same. Thanks to all those who came. You’re all ambassadors for New Zealand so keep proudly flying our flag. And please party vote National in October!

I’ll be back home tomorrow, and in Parliament on Tuesday, focussed again on what matters to all of us and our country, but with memories of a remarkable weekend.

Christopher

NZ National Party
http://www.national.org.nz/