ASIC are deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We join the world in sending our deepest condolences to the Royal Family.

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Regular newsletter service is due to resume next week following the summer break. However, I hope you don’t mind me joining you today to share in our collective grief for the passing of Her Majesty The Queen, our much-beloved monarch. Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathy go out to the Royal Family and all those who so deeply feel her loss.

We are, of course, aware of the different sentiments towards the institution of the Monarchy here in the UK and the Commonwealth, and worldwide, but it is right to acknowledge the passing of a much-respected woman who filled her constitutional role with grace and forbearance for seventy years. Most people in the UK and the Commonwealth countries have never known another monarch (I still, like many, have the mug and book given to us all to mark Her Majesty’s coronation). Her Majesty’s conduct in this role has been exemplary, earning her admiration and affection around the world. Her Majesty’s indelible elegance and dignity are woven through the threads of her long reign, and now our history – and her loss is felt deeply by millions.

May Her Majesty rest in peace. We hope His Majesty The King finds comfort in the knowledge that his mother is loved so deeply by so many. We pray that His Majesty’s reign is both blessed and shaped by the footsteps he now follows.

This news will affect people in different ways, some very profoundly – you may find it comforting to go to www.royal.uk and leave your condolences to The Royal Family.

My very best to you all,

Dr Maurice K Dimmock, Chair of the ASIC Group of Companies