Following the announcement of the death of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Richard commented on the Prince's lifetime of public service:
"The passing of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh is a moment of reflection and of thanks for a life of service of remarkable length and commitment.
Prince Philip, standing by the side of our sovereign has been, for me as for most of the people of Bedfordshire, the established and central part of our national identity.
Continuing his public duties beyond his 90th year was perhaps the moment that I properly appreciated how deeply he must have felt his duty to our country.
His constant support for Her Majesty the Queen provided an important lesson that it is not always important that it is you that is the brightest light that shines.
I pray for the comfort of Her Majesty and of their family and hope that they will take strength from the faith that has been such a central part of their lives."
