This is quite a historic moment. I give the Palace (both palaces - Buckingham and Clarence House) a great deal of credit for the seamless, gradual way in which they have been handling the transition from one reign to the next. For several years now there has been, effectively, a dual monarchy. HM has remained the undisputed Sovereign, but the Prince of Wales has become a sort of viceregent (though not in the sense of a viceroy; more like a secular vicegerent), handling virtual all outgoing official visits that would normally be state visits undertaken by the Head of State, and sharing much of the hosting duties for incoming state visits, as well a the lion's share of investitures (shared with the Princess Royal and the Duke of Cambridge). It has been made known for many years now that the Prince has been a major voice in decisions about the family and the future of the monarchy.
Now he is to open Parliament on Her Majesty's behalf and it seems like a natural, if nonetheless momentous, next step. It will interesting to see whether he gives the speech from the throne as a regent or a governor-general of a Commonwealth realm would, or from the steps of the throne as a commissioner would.
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Goodness me ...less than 4 weeks until the big Jubilee celebrations begin here in the UK. I should imagine HM, her family and medical team will all be crossing their fingers !! She's the star of the show!
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Here is the Buckingham Palace Press Statement.