Camilla uses controversial ivory scepter: Queen is applauded by conservationists after refusing to back down on using 3ft staff for coronation
- The 3ft scepter has been a permanent part of the ceremony since 1685
- Anti-hunting campaigners have called for a ban
Camilla has been applauded by African conservationists for not shying away from using the dove ivory rod during the coronation service.
The 3ft scepter has been a permanent part of the ceremony since the coronation of James II in 1685.
Despite the ivory coming from an elephant that had been dead for centuries, campaigners against the hunt have called for it to be banned.
Camilla has refused to bow to pressure and will be adorned with it today.
Dr. Rodgers Lubilo, chair of the Southern Africa Community Leaders Network, said: ‘I’m glad Queen Camilla ignored the naysayers to wear this beautiful item.
Camilla has been applauded by African conservationists for not shying away from using the ivory rod with dove during the coronation service
“This can only benefit conservation.”
He also denounced the activists for being “totally out of touch with the reality that ivory is a vital economic resource with important historical and cultural values.”
Dr. Lubilo said: “The demand from the animal rights groups that Queen Camilla should not use a historic ivory rod is completely unreasonable.
“Even our own chieftains use ivory and other animal parts such as tails and hides as symbols of the grandeur and richness of African culture and their role in preserving it.”
Siyoka Simasiku, director of the Ngamilands Council of Non-Governmental Organizations in Botswana, also welcomed the move.
He said, “In South African countries, the ivory of elephants dying of natural causes is a symbol and source of livelihood for our communities.”
Camilla has refused to bow to pressure and will be adorned with it today
They say the money generated from the ethical trade of ivory from elephants dying of natural causes could fund vital animal protection work.
It came after Botswana chief Rebecca Banika welcomed Camilla’s move.
“It is indeed a good move by the Queen of England to support the need to use wildlife products such as ivory,” she said.
“We see this as support for communities living with wildlife, such as those in overpopulated Botswana with elephants. We need trade in surplus ivory to survive.”
The scepter was made by the royal goldsmith Sir Robert Vyner for Mary of Modena and has been used to crown every Queen Consort ever since.