Prince Philip hails everyone from healthcare workers to rubbish collectors as they help nation battle coronavirus

The Duke of Edinburgh's tribute about the 'vital and urgent work being done by so many' is his first major statement since his retirement in 2017
Robert Jobson20 April 2020

Prince Philip came out of retirement today to thank key workers for their ‘vital and urgent’ efforts in the battle against Coronavirus.

In his first major statement since retiring from royal duties three years ago, The Duke of Edinburgh praised those on the front-line during this difficult time.

He thanked all key workers from the scientists trying to find a vaccine to the bin men removing our rubbish, keeping our every day life going.

The Duke, 98, said: “As we approach World Immunisation Week, I wanted to recognise the vital and urgent work being done by so many to tackle the pandemic; by those in the medical and scientific professions, at universities and research institutions, all, united in working to protect us from Covid-19.

“On behalf of those of us who remain safe and at home, I also wanted to thank all the key workers who ensure the infrastructure of our life continues; the staff and volunteers working in food production and distribution, those keeping postal and delivery services goings, and those ensuring the rubbish continues to be collected.”

The Duke, who will be 99 in June and is the longest serving royal consort in history, retired from his royal duties on August2, 2017.

He famously raised his bowler hat as the band of the Royal Marines played “For He’s A Jolly Good Fellow” in his final solo public engagement at Buckingham Palace, aged 96.

Since 1952 he completed 22,219 solo engagements.

At the time of his retirement the then Prime Minister Theresa May thanked him for “a remarkable lifetime of service”.

Since then he has spent most of the time quietly and out of the public eye living at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate.

He was last seen on March 19 arriving at Windsor Castle where he joined the Queen over the Easter period.

The royal couple are now self isolating there amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Philip, whose message will go up on the royal channel, also paid tribute to his patronages helping during the pandemic. They are

  • London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, where experts are involved in many different aspects of research as well as providing guidance to those responding around the globe every day. HRH has been Patron since 1952.
  • The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management. HRH has been Hon Fellow since 1969.
  • The Royal Society, who are working to identify the most important factors that can help slow the spread of the virus and find long-term solutions to the pandemic, by convening a multi-disciplinary group to analyse data from around the world. HRH has been a Fellow of the Royal Society since 1951.
  • The Royal Academy of Engineering, which is supporting the Government to call on engineers to help NHS England continue to deliver frontline services, and develop new medical facilities. HRH has been Senior Fellow of the Academy since 197
  • Cambridge University where over 1,200 scientists have volunteered to support research efforts, including the national testing effort. HRH was Chancellor from 1976-2011.
  • University of Edinburgh – DE was Chancellor from 1952 – 2011. A group of students and alumni have turned over their entire business – the 3D printing of prosthetic limbs – to join the national effort manufacturing personal protective equipment for NHS frontline staff.   The University has also launched a free Covid-19 critical care course for NHS staff. 
  • The Chartered College of Teaching are supporting teachers across the country by launching a wellbeing text service, online resources and support for teachers of mixed-aged classes for the children of key workers. HRH has been Patron since 1999.
  • The Fishmonger’s Company who have launched a grant programme to support food charities, fishing and seafood businesses. Their charity partners are working to help the vulnerable, including delivering free school meals (@ChefsinSchools). HRH has been a Freeman and Liveryman since 1947.​

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