The Queen's Christmas message: Monarch calls for those with ‘deeply held differences’ to treat each other with respect in veiled Brexit reference

'Treating the other person with respect and as a fellow human being is always a good first step towards greater understanding'

The Queen has called for those with "deeply held differences" to treat each other with respect in what some will view as a veiled reference to the toxic mood of public debate since the Brexit vote.

In her annual Christmas Day message to the Commonwealth, which consists of 53 countries with a combined population of 2.4 billion, the monarch also highlighted how religious faith can lead people to "fall victim to tribalism".

Now aged 92, the Queen's reign has lasted 66 years, during which there have been 13 prime ministers.

As head of state, the Queen remains publicly neutral when it comes to political matters and does not express her views on issues.

She did however call on others to respect those with opposing views in what appears to be a reference to Brexit.

"Even with the most deeply held differences, treating the other person with respect and as a fellow human being is always a good first step towards greater understanding,” the Queen said.

Sitting at a desk and with a Christmas tree in the background, she also spoke about "the power of faith".

"Some cultures believe a long life brings wisdom. I'd like to think so," she said.

"Perhaps part of that wisdom is to recognise some of life's baffling paradoxes, such as the way human beings have a huge propensity for good, and yet a capacity for evil.

"Even the power of faith, which frequently inspires great generosity and self-sacrifice, can fall victim to tribalism."

As she does every year the Queen thanked members of the armed forces, many of whom will be deployed overseas at Christmas, for their efforts.

She also remembered her father, George VI, reflecting on his service with the Royal Navy during the First World War and the role he played in the early years of the Commonwealth.

The Queen also acknowledged the sacrifices of the thousands of seamen who died fighting in the First World War Battle of Jutland in 1916 during which her father served as a midshipman.

She said: "The British fleet lost 14 ships and 6,000 men in that engagement. My father wrote in a letter: 'How and why we were not hit beats me'. Like others, he lost friends in the war."

In the lighter aspects of the speech, the Queen highlighted that she had a memorable 2018, with two of her grandchildren - the Duke of Cambridge and Zara Tindall - welcoming new additions to their families.

Another grandson, Prince Harry, married Meghan Markle and they became the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, announcing soon afterwards that were expecting their first child, due in the spring.

Granddaughter Princess Eugenie wed long-term boyfriend Jack Brooksbank.

Bringing a touch of humour to her televised address, the Queen said: "Closer to home, it's been a busy year for my family, with two weddings and two babies and another child expected soon.

"It helps to keep a grandmother well occupied."

The broadcast was recorded in Buckingham Palace's White Drawing Room, surrounded by family photos.

The Queen concluded her broadcast by highlighting Jesus's message, often cited at this time of year: "I believe his message of peace on earth and goodwill to all is never out of date.

"It can be heeded by everyone; it's needed as much as ever. A very happy Christmas to you all."