British Queen ‘not stepping down’

In this February 5, 2007 file photo, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, left, is greeted by Netherlands' Queen Beatrix, centre, as Britain's Prince Philip is seen rear right, upon the arrival of the British royal couple at Rotterdam airport, Netherlands.

In this February 5, 2007 file photo, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, left, is greeted by Netherlands' Queen Beatrix, centre, as Britain's Prince Philip is seen rear right, upon the arrival of the British royal couple at Rotterdam airport, Netherlands.

Published Jan 29, 2013

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London -

The story in the Daily Mirror features a photo of an elegant aging monarch with the headline: “Queen Gives Up Her Throne to Son.”

Then, in smaller type, “Easy, Charles..It's Queen Beatrix of Netherlands.”

The abdication of Beatrix sparked some speculation in the British press on Tuesday about whether Queen Elizabeth II, at 86, might follow suit and step down so her son Charles could become King.

But commentators quickly noted that in the past Elizabeth - who seems to be in excellent health - had indicated that she regarded being queen as a job for life.

Charles, 64, has been heir to the throne since 1952. - Sapa-AP

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