Majesty

Dutch queen-regnant Beatrix stubbornly resists last-minute changes decided by PM Balkenende's cabinet on the day of her annual grand state opening of parliament in The Hague. It concerns a promise to spend more on Africa, an obsession she shared with late prince-consort Claus. Concerting with crown prince Willem Alexander, who sides with parliamentary rule, evokes other dynastic traumas, such as his controversial marriage and possible renunciation from her succession.