31 March 2002

"The Queen Mother had a special place in hearts of many New Zealanders and she will be sadly missed," National Party Leader Bill English commented today on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

"She was a gracious and happy person who had universal appeal because of her outstanding human qualities."

Mr English said many New Zealanders would warmly remember the Queen Mother as a person of great courage, which was displayed when she refused to leave London during World War Two's bombing blitz.

"Despite the obvious dangers from the continuous bombings - when even Buckingham Palace was hit - the Queen Mother insisted the royal family stay in London to be with the British people and help raise their spirits."

Mr English said the Queen Mother's passing would be especially felt by her daughter Queen Elizabeth.

"My sincere condolences and thoughts go out to the Queen at this time, which comes after the loss her sister Princess Margaret earlier this year.

"The Queen Mother's passing will leave fond and happy memories of her with millions of people throughout the world," Mr English concluded.

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