Monarchists in a quandary

The appointment of the first woman governor-general of Australia will have some traditional die-hard monarchists in a quandary. On the one hand, they will doubtless be pleased that a governor general is being appointed - even if it is a woman - and on the other hand, they will be unsure quite how to handle this particular woman.

Ms Quentin Bryce, due to be sworn in as governor-general, is more than impeccably qualified to take up the position she has been offered. Yet lingering doubts remain among monarchists and republicans, as in her earlier days Bryce was generally recognised to be a Republican or, at the very least, a supporter of Republican ideals. The appointment of governor-general is approved without contention by the Queen. What Republicans are now hoping is that with Bryce it will be the last time such formalities will take place, as Australia moves towards becoming a republic.