The furore over the decision that erupted on social media soon after it was announced didn’t let up for most of the day.

Mr Abbott described the negative reaction on social media as “electronic graffiti”, perhaps one of the most accurate observations he has made.

Prince Philip has given a life of service to Britain and the Commonwealth as his position has demanded, but is it necessary he be given yet another title?

Mr Abbott’s decision last year to reintroduce dames and knights had already caused more than a few raised eyebrows, but Australians had acknowledged the potential to award those who had given service to the nation at the highest level and previous honours to Sir Peter Cosgrove and Dame Quentin Bryce appeared to confirm that.

Equally deserving of an Australian honour is Air Chief Marshal (retired) Angus Houston, whose knighthood was also announced yesterday.

With no disrespect to the Prince, surely there must have been another Australian who deserved this recognition.