King Charles III’s new duties and powers explained as he takes to the throne
12.09.2022 - 15:17
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
King Charles III acceded to the throne last week following the passing of his mother Queen Elizabeth II.
The King was proclaimed on Saturday, with the Principal Proclamation taking place at St James's Palace in the City of London.
In his first speech as King, he spoke of his mother's responsibilities and said: "Queen Elizabeth's was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today."
Some may now wonder what the new King's official responsibilities and powers will include. Here is what will be expected of King Charles III.
The King is a constitutional monarch who must remain politically neutral. The head of state has “an important formal and ceremonial relationship” with Parliament, according to the monarchy’s official website.
Charles’s role will consist, as did the late Queen’s, of assenting to Bills passed by Parliament on the advice of ministers.
He will also give audiences to ministers, at which he may “encourage or warn” them and be consulted on issues. He can also summon new Parliaments on the Government’s advice, and open and close – or prorogue – each session of Parliament.
His assent is required to all bills passed by Parliament in order for them to become law. Royal Assent has not been refused since 1707.
It is also a long established convention that the monarch is asked for consent to debate bills which would affect the prerogative or interests of the Crown.
Research by The Guardian in 2021 found more than 1,000 laws had been vetted by Elizabeth II – including whether national traffic rules applied to her private estates of Balmoral and Sandringham.
In the annual State Opening of Parliament ceremony, the King