I am deeply sad that Elizabeth II has died. She was not only our country's longest serving monarch but probably the most consequential - leading us carefully and skilfully through an era of huge change in our society and the world.
I had the huge privilege, during my time as Vice Chamberlain of the Royal Household, to write to Her Majesty daily and meet with her regularly to update her on parliamentary matters. She was inspirational in her kindness and her work ethic and her attention to every detail of current debate and affairs.
As Secretary of State for Northern Ireland I later witnessed the huge impact she made in solidifying and entrenching the peace process particularly through the ongoing glow of her historic state visit to Dublin in 2011 and to Belfast in 2012 where she shook hands with Martin McGuinness.
As a constituency MP in North Yorkshire I saw on a weekly basis the commitment, the dedication and love felt towards her by so many constituents, as I, in complete awe of her service and dedication to our country.
I look forward to taking the Oath of Allegiance in parliament to King Charles III in the coming days and to remembering and celebrating the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with constituents over this period of national mourning.
