Following his arrival the duke was presented with the insignia of a Companion of the Order of Canada and Commander of the Order of Military Merit by the Governor General of Canada, David Johnston.

BBC: Duke of Edinburgh on three-day visit to Canada

Officials argue, somewhat disingenuously, that this is not a constitutional measure since the governor-general, who as the representative of Queen Elizabeth in Canada acts as the head of state, will still technically appoint those whom the prime minister says have been elected.

ECONOMIST: Stephen Harper tries reform by stealth