THE SNP's historic victory in the Holyrood election has "rattled the timbers" of the Union, according to Prince Andrew.
In the first comment by a member of the Royal Family on the outcome of the vote, the Duke of York declared that "we are always in a state of change in any society".
He went on to issue a clear affirmation of Scotland's right to decide its own des
tiny, insisting that Scotland "is, and has always been, a nation and a nation with a great history".
The Duke's comments, given during an address at the opening of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, were given in the presence of First Minister Alex Salmond, who immediately welcomed them as "good-natured remarks".
Salmond will this week receive the seals of office from the Queen when she visits Scotland. The warming relations between the SNP and the monarchy emerged during the election campaign when Salmond spoke of how he envisaged the monarch remaining as head of state in an independent Scotland.
Prince Andrew was speaking in his capacity as Lord High Commissioner of the Kirk. Also attending was the Rev Sheilagh Kesting, who has become the first ordained female minister appointed as Moderator
The prince said: "The General Assembly has a 450-year link with the Monarchy through this position and I only add another temporary link and embody this continuous chain which has bound the Church and Sovereign together."
He added: "This very month has seen the celebration of the 300th anniversary of the uniting of the kingdoms and the union of parliaments, while at the same time an election in Scotland has rattled the timbers of the concept of the Union."
He said: "We are always in a state of change in any society. Democracy empowers the citizens of the state to decide on how and by whom they will be ruled. Scotland is, and always has been, a nation and a nation with a great history and worldwide reputation. The contribution by Scots to the power and influence of Great Britain and to civilisation in general in the last three centuries has been enormous."
The prince also went on to reminisce about the Falklands War, in which he served as a helicopter pilot. This year is the 25th anniversary of the liberation of the islands following their invasion by Argentina.
He said: "As one who served in the Falklands, I look back with pride but also with mixed feelings on those adventurous times. The feeling of pride comes from what we achieved.
"Some 27,000 of our armed forces, in very difficult conditions, 8,000 miles from home, all of it over ocean, retrieved a group of islands that few had heard of from an invader that really should have been a friend rather than an enemy. We did this with the full support of our nation."
He also alluded to the Iraq war, saying there was a "divergence of views" over any particular conflict. But those sent into battle had a right to be cared for by their country. "Whatever any divergence of views over any particular conflict, and in a healthy democracy there will always be such controversy, we must remember that those sent into situations of conflict by democratic governments have an inalienable right to support and care from the nation as they carry out their dangerous duty.
"We are all conscious that today, as 25 years ago, there are British service men and women in situations of extreme danger, some at the cost of their lives, trying to bring security, peace and freedom to what may seem impossible situations.
"Our thoughts and prayers must be with them and their families, whilst never forgetting the truly real and terrible life facing the people they are amongst."
The prince then paid a warm tribute to his parents, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, who celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary in November this year.
Andrew said: "Sixty years of marriage should be celebrated for any couple who reach this milestone. As a part of their family I think that it is a cause of particular celebration.
"I can truly say that as our Queen and Consort they have performed their duties unstintingly and have dedicated themselves to their nation so effectively and completely, working together; whilst never forgetting their family responsibilities. They have always been there for us throughout our lives."
Salmond said afterwards: "The Duke of York spoke movingly about his family, and was very well received by the General Assembly. He was on fine form, and I welcomed his good-natured remarks about the election."
