The Queen’s outfit for her Christmas Day speech was a secret show of support for the European Union, academics have claimed.
Her Majesty, 93, sat poised in Windsor Castle’s green drawing room, as she addressed the nation dressed in a royal blue cashmere dress teamed with a sapphire brooch.
The round brooch, set with 12 diamonds, was likened to the EU flag's circle of stars by a University of Reading professor.
Dr James Anderson suggested the Monarch had let slip her publicly politically neutral stance by intentionally opting for a Europe-inspired ensemble.
The computer science lecturer claimed the Queen had expressed her “personal views” during the speech which was watched by nearly eight million people.
He tweeted: “The Queen has full editorial control of the Queen's Speech and can choose whether or not to give one.
“So treat the speech as her personal views, right down to her choice of an EU blue dress and an EU stars broach (sic).”
Other social media sleuths backed Dr Anderson’s observation.
Aeronautical engineer Dr Geoff Jones wrote: “Her Majesty yet again doing what little she can to show her support for the European Union.”
Another Twitter user wrote: “Now where have we seen that brooch before? Oh yes, 1992 when the Queen addressed the European parliament.
“Don't tell me she isn't sending a message.”
It is not the first time Her Majesty has been accused of sending subliminal EU support messages with her choice of attire.
In a 2017 speech on proposed Brexit plans, she wore a royal blue hat featuring seven flowers, which a number of viewers again likened to the stars of the EU flag.
Even leading MEP Guy Verhofstadt joined the speculation.
He tweeted at the time: “Clearly the EU still inspires some in the UK,” along with a smiley emoji.
