Heard this on the news this morning and could see the funny side of it. I’ve even taken up “mate” for various friends, as I’m often around Australians and others who use it (hi, Win!)
One of the great defining characteristics of an Australian is informality to everyone, great and small. I recall that a former Prime Minister (was it Bob Hawke?) put his arm around the Queen’s back to steer her toward a receiving line or something. There was a furore here, as it’s well known that the only part of the Queen you touch is her gloved hand.
Unless you’re the Duke of Edinburgh, in which case it’s your duty.
Dude, you’re hanging on by your fingertips! Fight the Man!
or the queen.. or something… jeez…
Back in the early 90s HRH was here for something or other and part of the program included touring an inner-city subsidized housing project with Hilary Clinton. One of the residents gave HRH a huge bear hug! That’s not so out of the norm here, presidents are always hugging people, but boy did it cause a ruckus with the UK press covering the visit – protocol was breached!!!!
One of the things that HRH Prince Charles always complains about when he is in the US is that people and photographers address him as “Prince” rather than “Your Royal Highness” or “Sir” (used after first addressing him as HRH). The photographers say, “Hey, Prince, look ver here!” He thinks it sounds like they’re calling their dog.
That does sound like they are calling a dog! Maybe they should just say *smile for the camera Chuck*. 😉
Funny you should say that; I dimly remember him also complaining that they called him Chuck and Charles.
For a guy whose major job is to call up Buckingham Palace every day and find out how his mother is feeling that day, he’s pretty stuck-up.
LOL!!! I can handle *your honor*, or *Mr. President*, etc., but I’m not too keen on addressing a fellow mortal such as myself *your royal highness* or *your majesty* – nah.