The King’s state visit to the US has been a triumph. His Majesty managed to put most of Capitol Hill into a state of giddy excitement, helped along by cucumber sandwiches and lashings of English sparkling wine at the British ambassador’s residence.

His historic address to the joint meeting of Congress has won many deserved plaudits for its weaving of serious politics and very good gags. His Majesty did more in 37 minutes to burnish our national reputation for humour than a lifetime of Have I Got News for You.

It was probably the best gift from a British monarch to a US President since the Oval Office’s Resolute Desk was given to President Rutherford B. Hayes by Queen Victoria

It was probably the best gift from a British monarch to a US President since the Oval Office’s Resolute Desk was given to President Rutherford B. Hayes by Queen Victoria

His charm offensive with Trump and his after-dinner remarks at the White House were as important. And it was here that the King unveiled his masterstroke.

Fresh from speaking of Aukus – the security partnership and submarine deal between the UK, US and Australia – the King noted a previous submarine alliance during the second world war. He drew attention to a British T-class sub, commissioned in 1944, and attached to the 4th squadron in Australia, that........

© The Spectator