Royal Watch News
Queen goes part-time
Feb 28, 2006, 15:31 GMT
Britain's Queen Elizabeth II has switched to working a three-day week as she nears her 80th birthday.
The move - which began last week - allows her to continue in the job she loves as Head of State, while at the same time taking account of her age.
Elizabeth - who turns 80 on April 21 - will now work from Monday lunchtime to midday on Thursday and take extended weekends off at Windsor. The burden of many of her official duties has been taken on by other family members, including Prince Charles and the Princess Royal. Senior regal sources insist the new arrangements are not a sign that the queen is preparing for 'semi-retirement' or to hand over power to Prince Charles. One source insisted: 'The move is not a sign of frailty but simply common sense and self preservation.' The queen will continue to carry out public engagements and will occasionally work on Fridays and Monday mornings. Her official spokesman admitted there is now 'flexibility' in the official schedule, but added: 'Her programme will continue to be produced in accordance with her age and commitments.'Copyright 2006 BANG Media International
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