Let's Give The Queen A Hand

Weekly commentary by CBS Evening News chief Washington correspondent and Face the Nation host Bob Schieffer.

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Let me just say that personally I was okay with Michelle Obama touching the Queen of England. I thought it was sweet.

(I'm assured the Queen touched her first.)

I believe everyone should be treated with respect, of course. And I love the British, and it's their business that they want to have a king and queen.

But my views on royalty more or less parallel those of … how should I say it? I find the royals amusing.

When we were invited to the British Embassy last year to see the visiting Elizabeth and Philip, my wife donned a hat as big as a wash tub and we had a fine time.

All this does bring back a memory from years ago when a member of the royal family visited the Texas legislature, and a protocol officer told some state legislators not to shake hands unless the royal hand was extended first.

As the story goes, the legislator responded, "Fine." But, he added, "I'll tell you one thing: They couldn't get elected in my district if they didn't shake hands."

You know, I expect he was right.

Aren't we glad our founders took care of all that a long time ago?

[hudson5470]

As a British national and American Citizen, I am slighted by Mr. Schiffler's somewhat patronizing remarks: While we may have somewhat anachronistic etiquette rules, there is a lot to be said for a country who would not allow its citizens to die of cancer because their insurance has lapsed, (60 minutes),nor pride itself on gun laws that enable maniacs with grievances to gun down innocents. But perhaps one must conclude that good manners may not have a place this side of the Atlantic, indeed, to quote Oscar Wilde:"America is the first country to have gone from barbarism to decadence without the usual intervening period of civilization."

[fossilgeek]

I think it's great. All Americans should disrespect their hosts and make up their own rules in other people's nations and homes. It makes us look so mature, intelligent, and tolerant.

Besides, how are we expected to remember all these nit-picky rules. 'Don't touch the Queen' is such an obscure expectation, even when you are reminded only moments before meeting her... Foreigner hosts can be such haters.

[displeased]

This is NOT the big issue of the day, month nor year.
Posted by sjc_1

Who said this was a big issue. It's an opinion article, not a top story. Perhaps you should get a grip.

[markangeloo]

The reason the US is in this financial mess now is people were beginning the quest for nobility.
Yes become landed gentry & U would not have to work a real day of labor anymore. Living in royal estates with pseudo British names & not letting the filthy hired help touch oneself. Behind their gated communities they thought they were more equal than others.

[flreason]

J_G_H:

According to observers at the event, the queen initiated the contact. Michelle Obama's response was appropriate based on the Queen Elizabeth's action. When it comes to diplomacy, even small gestures can take on great significance. Queen Elizabeth rarely exhibits emotion, and has been somewhat vilified in the popular press for her apparent lack of feeling. This spontaneous gesture, and Michelle Obama's responding in kind, will only enhance the general public's perception of both of them. Critics will always attempt to justify their need to find fault.

[J_G_H]

Protocol aside, we are a little too touchy-feely when it comes to people outside our normal social circle. Think how many people the Queen meets each year and what her life would be like if everyone felt free to give her a hug.

[Henri_Rochard]

I was on London and went to see the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace a coupld of years ago. It was quite the showpiece.

Alas, some flag or another on top of the Palace indicated that Queen Elizabeth wasn't at home that day.

[whitemale08]

Elizabeth is not a queen, there is no 'royal family', these people need to get off welfare and jump in the un-employment line like everybody else.

Our President should not have wasted one minute visiting a nobody like Mrs. Elizabeth when the world's economy is in crisis.

[appa78xx]

If that was Sera Plain or a supper model would have done better.
Bowed the queen and dressed in a very good designer clothe.
That's why people like models. Obama would have had more crowed waited to see him.

[guzelvis]

For a funny take on Michelle's getting on the Queen's back, and more Royal mishaps, see http://www.thelintscreen.com
it's the weekend, you deserve a laugh