[cooper72]

I still think it was the Royals and the old line British establishment that pushed Blair over whatever scruples he had in backing us

That line is totally wrong I'm afraid. The Royals have no power or influence whatsoever, and Blair is the establishment.

[CasearianDaoist]

Well that is not in line with my experience. It is behind the scenes and more in the private and semi public sector, but the Royals and the old line establishment still have quite a bit of influence. Not in a direct political way, but indirectly. The UK is one of our largest investors; The USA is one of the largest investors in the UK. I particularly see the influence in the City and on Wall St.

So I respectfully disagree.