No anthem for Queen

SYDNEY - To her loyal subjects she may be victorious, happy and glorious, but the Queen won't have her praises sung when she opens the Commonwealth Games in Australia.

Senior Government ministers, including republicans who want her replaced as Australia's head of state, suggested organisers were being bad sports with their decision not to play God Save the Queen at the Games held in her honour.

"I have absolutely no difficulty with the playing of God Save the Queen in the presence of Her Majesty, I think it's appropriate in the Queen's presence," said Prime Minister John Howard, an avowed monarchist.

"It's just a matter of good manners," he said, adding that the royal anthem would be played when he hosts the Queen at a state dinner in Canberra this month.

Complaints have risen after Games organisers said the Australian national anthem, Advance Australia Fair, would be the only one played, outside of medals ceremonies.

Even Immigration Minister Amanda Vanstone, who differs with Howard in favouring a republic, thought that the Queen's praises should be sung.

- REUTERS