Philip is the one who wanted nothing to do with Fergie, so I think the late queen kept her away at Christmas in deference to her husband's wishes even after he passed. Elizabeth would have Fergie to tea at Sandingham over Christmas and during the year, but not when Philip was around. It looks like Elizabeth didn't make Charles promise to keep Fergie out in the cold, so he's allowing her back for some family events. She's good for Andrew and helps keep him contained. Including Fergie might have been part of an agreement for Andrew to stop lobbying to get back on active duty.
Another angle to this is showing how the family can expand itself to include those who have hurt them and embarrassed the monarchy.
===
241
Message Thread | This response ↓
« Back to index | View thread »