Following the queen’s passing on Thursday at her vacation home in Balmoral, Scotland, after 70 years as monarch, Charles and his wife Camilla, Queen Consort, arrived at Westminster Hall in London to a fanfare of trumpets for the address. This was just one of many pageantry-filled ceremonies that followed.
Following the speech, the new king left for Edinburgh to travel with his siblings in a sad procession as Queen Elizabeth‘s body was brought to the city’s ancient church.
After that, they will attend a vigil at St Giles’ Cathedral on the historic Royal Mile in the Scottish capital, where the body will repose before being taken to London on Tuesday.
Parliamentarians from the House of Commons and the House of Lords attended the speech at Westminster Hall together with the Prime Minister, Liz Truss, who is still only in her first week in office.
The late queen was hailed as “both a leader to and servant to her people” by the Lord speaker.
In front of Charles and Camilla, cavalry men in crimson tunics and plumed helmets stood at attention as they sat on ceremonial seats.
Charles stated in his speech that “Her late majesty devoted herself to serve her country and her people and to uphold the priceless values of constitutional governance which lay at the heart of our nation” even when she was only a little child. She maintained this pledge with the utmost fervour.
She established an example of unselfish service, which I am determined to faithfully follow with God’s assistance and your advice.
“God Save the King” was sung by the group.
Following the passing of his mother, Charles, 73, inherited the thrones of the United Kingdom and 14 other countries, including Australia, Canada, Jamaica, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Charles is well known for his strong opinions on a variety of topics, including the environment and youth issues.
In line with the custom that the monarch refrains from interfering in political affairs, he has said that as king, he may need to temper his demeanor.
To read our blog on “The funeral for Queen Elizabeth will be held on September 19,” click here.
