Not a few had tears in their eyes as they heard the King of Canada declare: 'The True North is indeed strong and free!'

You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.

The speech from the throne was a spectacular constitutional triumph, which approaches the oxymoronic, in that constitutional matters in the Westminster tradition are designed not to be spectacular. The sovereign imposes upon himself the custom of reading the speech impassively, the flat tone indicating neither approval nor disapproval of the government’s program. There is the prohibition, indicated in the instructions to all present in the chamber, to “refrain from expressions of support or dissent.”

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

King Charles III began by noting that “every time I come to Canada … a little more of Canada seeps into my bloodstream — and from there straight to my heart.” The desire to applaud was palpable in all present. But restraint was the order of the day, and order is part of our non-revolutionary constitutional history, along with peace and good government.

This newsletter tackles hot topics with boldness, verve and wit. (Subscriber-exclusive edition on Fridays)

By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.

A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.

The next issue of Platformed will soon be in your inbox.

We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again

Interested in more newsletters? Browse here.

Standing........

© National Post