Duke of Edinburgh makes light of decision to step down from official duties

The Duke of Edinburgh’s decision to step down from public duties has been met with tributes praising his contribution to national life – and a light-hearted quip from Philip himself.

Despite being 95, Philip’s decision – which is fully supported by the Queen and is not medically related – came as a surprise as he still has a busy official diary and appears to relish meeting the public.

Prime Minister Theresa May led the tributes to the Queen’s consort, saying he has given the monarch “steadfast support”, while Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the Duke’s “clear sense of public duty” had inspired people for more than 60 years.

In a statement issued by Downing Street, Mrs May said: “From his steadfast support for Her Majesty the Queen to his inspirational Duke of Edinburgh Awards and his patronage of hundreds of charities and good causes, his contribution to our United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the wider world will be of huge benefit to us all for years to come.”

A royal aide said of the Duke: “He’s looking forward to enjoying more of his leisure time.”

Philip saw the funny side of the announcement when he met mathematician Sir Michael Atiyah at a reception for members of the Order of Merit at St James’s Palace.

When Sir Michael, who is 88, said to him: “I’m sorry to hear you’re standing down,” the Duke joked: “Well I can’t stand up much longer”.

The Queen’s public schedule will continue as normal but it is understood other members of the Royal Family will “step up” in support of the monarch.

The royal aide added: “This is not a decision taken for medical reasons. The Duke decided this is the right time; he’s nearly 96 and most people will have retired 30 years earlier.”

It is understood the Duke had been thinking about stepping down from public duties over the past few months and took the decision to make the announcement now as his diary for the autumn would have been finalised during this period.

But Buckingham Palace stressed he may decide to attend certain events from time to time.

Philip is famed for his quips and outspoken remarks that amuse and offend in equal measure but he also has a passionate interest in engineering and design, has written 14 books, many on a wildlife subject matter, including Birds From Britannia, and is a qualified pilot who speaks several languages.

When he opened the new Warner stand at Lord’s cricket ground on Wednesday, the Duke joked just before he pulled a cord to expose a monument to his visit: “You’re about to see the world’s most experienced plaque-unveiler”.