Prince Charles promoted a better understanding of Islam before it became a political necessity and this proves that on some issues he has been prescient, said The Times in an editorial yesterday. Excerpts:
As he turns 60 today, the Prince of Wales will find a certain historical irony, not only in being the oldest heir to the throne in the long line of English monarchs, but also to have reached what for many people is normal retirement age before taking up the job for which he has spent his life in training. Defining and honing his role as he waits to become king has been an overwhelming preoccupation. It is one that, despite carping, controversy and periods of deep personal unhappiness, Prince Charles has fulfilled with skill, conviction and purpose.
It is appropriate, therefore, that this morning, on his birthday, he will launch Youth Week at The Prince’s Trust, the charity he founded 32 years ago, which has proved one of the most enterprising and successful of all the organizations associated with his name. More than 500,000 young people have been trained, mentored and inspired to overcome hardship, fulfill their potential and transform their lives. The trust’s work in inner cities is recognized as extraordinarily effective. Its encouragement of volunteering has given purpose to idealists, direction to policy. There are dozens of other causes to which he has lent support and patronage — ranging from the restoration of the Mary Rose, the Tudor warship.
