Monarchy of the United Kingdom

The British Monarchy

The monarchy of the United Kingdom, also called the British monarchy, is the way the United Kingdom is governed with a hereditary monarch as the head of state. This means the king or queen passes the role to their family. Since September 8, 2022, the monarch has been King Charles III, who became king after the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

The monarch and the royal family have many important duties. They take part in official events, ceremonies, and meetings with other countries. Even though the monarch officially has control over the government, this power can only be used following laws passed by Parliament. In practice, the monarch’s role today is mostly symbolic, such as giving out honours and appointing the prime minister.

The British monarchy has a long history, starting from the small kingdoms of Anglo-Saxon England and early medieval Scotland. Over many years, these areas came together under one rule. Important moments include the Magna Carta, which began to limit the monarch’s power, and the joining of England and Scotland in 1707 to form the Kingdom of Great Britain. Later, in 1801, Ireland joined to create the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.

Today, the monarch is also the head of state for fourteen other countries known as Commonwealth realms. Each of these countries is independent, and the monarch has a special title for each one. The monarchy today plays an important role in culture, tourism, and support for charities across civil society.

The monarch is the head of state in the United Kingdom. The monarch's picture appears on money, coins, and in important buildings to show the country's authority. The national anthem, “God Save the King” or “God Save the Queen,” is also about the monarch. Special promises of loyalty are made to the monarch.

The monarch does not handle everyday government work. Most powers are used by ministers or other leaders, following laws or customs. Important actions done in the monarch's name, like giving speeches or opening Parliament, are based on decisions made by others.

The monarch’s role today is mostly ceremonial. The monarch meets with the prime minister once a week, but these meetings are private and no records are kept. The monarch’s powers are limited. For example, new taxes must be approved by Parliament.

The monarch appoints the prime minister. By tradition, this is the leader of the party or group that has the most support in the House of Commons. The prime minister starts their job after a private meeting with the monarch.

The monarch can call Parliament to meet, end a session, or dissolve Parliament. When Parliament starts a new session, the monarch gives a speech outlining the government’s plans. Parliament usually ends a session after about a year. Dissolving Parliament leads to new elections.

Before a law passed by Parliament can take effect, the monarch must approve it. This approval, called royal assent, has always been given since 1708. The monarch also plays a role in the governments of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

The monarch gives out honours, like knighthoods, mostly based on the prime minister’s advice. The monarch is protected from being arrested or sued. Laws also protect the monarch’s property. However, the government—the Crown—can be involved in legal cases.

The British monarchy is very important to many people. Most people in the United Kingdom still support having a monarchy. The monarch helps bring people together and supports many charities.

The main home for the king or queen in London is Buckingham Palace. Important events happen there, like parties and ceremonies. Another important home is Windsor Castle, the largest castle where people still live. It is used mostly on weekends and during special times like Easter and the Royal Ascot race each year.

In Scotland, the main home is the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. The monarch stays there for at least one week every year when visiting Scotland. There are other homes too, like Clarence House and Kensington Palace. All these palaces belong to the Crown and are kept safe for future kings or queens.