The role of the Monarch

The King (or Queen) opens Parliament at least once a year with The Kings’s (or Queen’s) Speech.

This is the only regular occasion when the Monarch, the House of Lords and the House of Commons meet.

The Monarch’s other main duties are:

• To make official State visits abroad and to welcome other world leaders to Britain.
• To represent the country at times of joy or sadness.
• To travel the country visiting hospitals, schools and factories.

The Monarch is also Head of the Armed Forces and Head of the Church of England.

The Past Five Monarchs:

• Charles III September 8th 2022 – Present
• Elizabeth II 6^th February 1952 – 8th September 2022
  (70 years, 214 days)
• George VI 11^th December 1936 – 6^th February 1952
  (15 years, 58 days)
• Edward VIII 20^th January 1936 – 11^th December 1936 (Abdicated after 326 days)
• George V 6^th May 1910 – 20^th January 1936
  (25 years, 260 days)
• Edward VII 22^nd January 1901 – 6^th May 1910
  (9 years, 105 days)

Next in line to the throne is currently William, Prince of Wales.