With Queen Elizabeth II’s reign as the longest serving monarch in British history coming to an end, speculation is mounting over what will happen when her son Charles takes the throne. The Prince of Wales has waited longer than any heir apparent to become king, having been the heir apparent since he was three years old. Now in his 70s, Charles faces the challenge of stepping into the shoes of his mother, who has exemplified stability and continuity over her 70 year reign. As Charles prepares for the responsibilities of kingship, questions abound over what changes he may bring and what his reign will mean for the future of the British monarchy.
When will Charles become king?
The timing of Charles’ accession depends entirely on when Queen Elizabeth II’s reign comes to an end. Given the Queen’s advanced age of 96, her reign could potentially end at any time. However, she remains in good health and continues to carry out royal duties. Barring any unexpected events, Charles will likely not become king for at least a few more years.
When the Queen does pass away, Charles will immediately become king. This is automatic and does not depend on a coronation or official ceremony. However, to formally mark the beginning of his reign, an Accession Council will meet at St. James’s Palace to proclaim him as the new sovereign. This is usually done within 24 hours of the monarch’s death.
Will Charles’s reign mark significant changes for the monarchy?
In many ways, Charles will aim to continue the legacy of his mother in providing stability and continuity for the institution of the monarchy. However, as someone who has waited longer than any other heir to take the throne, Charles has had time to develop strong ideas about how he envisions his reign. Significant changes that are expected include:
- A slimmed down monarchy – Charles is expected to limit the working royal family to immediate heirs, their spouses and some extended family. Non-senior royals are likely to lose their HRH titles and royal duties.
- A modernized monarchy – Charles wants to reshape public perception of the royals as more accessible and representative of modern Britain.
- Focus on climate change and sustainability – These issues are expected to be top priorities for Charles on the throne.
- Outspokenness on issues – While constitutional rules may restrict Charles from being overtly political, he has strong views he wants to express.
However, as king, Charles will have to act within the constitutional framework and will likely rely heavily on advice from the government. Drastic changes to the status quo seem unlikely. The monarchy under Charles will aim to balance preservation of tradition while gradual, moderate reform and progress.
What will happen to the Queen Consort Camilla?
When Charles becomes king, his wife Camilla will take on the role of Queen Consort. This is a customary title given to the wife of the reigning king. It was officially declared by Elizabeth II that this would be Camilla’s future title.
As Queen Consort, Camilla will take on duties to support Charles’s kingship and continue with existing charitable patronages. However, she is not the sovereign or head of state herself. She may also use the title Princess Consort instead of Queen Consort, although this has not been confirmed.
Public perception of Camilla has warmed over time as she has diligently taken on royal responsibilities. However, she may never attain the level of popularity the Queen currently enjoys. Regardless, she will provide vital support and companionship to Charles in his new role as monarch.
What ceremonial changes can we expect?
Charles’s accession to the throne will be marked with an elaborate ceremonial program over several months following Elizabeth II’s death. Key highlights include:
The new monarch’s proclamation
This formal ceremony will take place at St James’s Palace within 24 hours of the Queen’s passing. The Accession Council will proclaim Charles the new sovereign, followed by ceremonial readings of the proclamation in London and across the country. The proclamation will also be read publicly in Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast.
The State Funeral and Operation London Bridge
Operation London Bridge is the codename for the intricate plan for the Queen’s state funeral, which will occur approximately 12 days after her death. The sombre event will be held at Westminster Abbey, attended by heads of state from across the world. As the funeral cortège makes its journey through London, business activity will cease across the country for the day of mourning.
The Coronation
Charles’s coronation will take place at Westminster Abbey several months after becoming king. The elaborate, spiritual ceremony will be led by the Archbishop of Canterbury and will mark Charles’s formal investiture. Dignitaries from across the Commonwealth and around 1,400 guests will witness Charles take the Coronation Oath and be anointed, blessed and consecrated by holy oil.
How will Charles’s reign impact Commonwealth nations?
As king, Charles will also assume the role of Head of the Commonwealth, currently held by Queen Elizabeth II. This is a symbolic, non-political position recognising the free association between the 53 member states. Support for the Commonwealth remains a central focus of the British monarchy.
Under Charles, the Commonwealth will likely see:
- Continued close ties between Britain and member countries
- Increased focus on climate change impacts across Commonwealth nations
- Promotion of Commonwealth values of democracy, human rights and development
- Possibility of a renewed republican push in some member countries
Overall, Charles is deeply committed to the Commonwealth. But its future relevance remains debated by members, as the historical ties to British imperialism continue to be questioned by critics. Charles will need diplomatic skill to balance preservation of Commonwealth bonds with awareness of its contentious roots.
How will Charles handle public perception and the media?
Charles faces the challenge of succeeding the enormously popular Queen Elizabeth II and carving out public credibility of his own. His relatively lower popularity ratings, due in part to the scandal over his first marriage to Diana, suggest he may struggle to match the Queen’s widespread approval.
However, in recent years the public has warmed more to Charles, seeing his dedication to duty and the support he provides to the Queen. He has overcome reservations about Camilla and their marriage appears solid. As king, Charles has the opportunity to shape his public image. Tactics may include:
- Engaging more with public walkabouts and increased visibility
- Using more intimate media interview opportunities to build rapport
- Inviting documentary crews to showcase behind-the-scenes life as the new monarch
- Continuing focus on climate change and sustainability issues
In dealing with the media, Charles will likely adopt a more assertive but professional approach compared to the Queen’s “never complain, never explain” style. However, he must tread carefully to avoid controversies that may erode public confidence in him.
How will Charles handle political issues as King?
By law and custom, the British monarch is expected to remain strictly neutral and non-partisan on political matters. The sovereign has a primarily ceremonial role and acts on the advice of ministers.
However, Charles has a reputation for being more outspoken and willing to intervene on issues he cares deeply about such as the environment. As king, Charles will likely express his views behind closed doors with the prime minister, but avoid being seen as partisan or overstepping into government policy.
Key aspects of how Charles may approach political issues:
- Privately air concerns in weekly meetings with the prime minister
- Use speeches to make views known or highlight issues, without being explicitly political
- Choose issues that have broad consensus and are less likely to be divisive
- Focus on topics like environment, humanitarianism where he can make a symbolic difference
- Tread carefully to avoid controversies like the “black spider memos” row over lobbying ministers
While pushing boundaries at times, Charles is acutely aware of constitutional limits and will likely take a cautious approach overall. But he may be more vocal than the politically neutral Queen has been.
Conclusion
Queen Elizabeth II leaves an enormous legacy and her shoes will be hard to fill. But Charles has spent his whole life preparing to be king. He will aim to prove he can adapt the monarchy to new times while preserving its traditions. If he gains public confidence and trust, Charles could build a reign that combines continuity with his own vision and leadership. His succession will mark a new era that will shape Britain and the Commonwealth in the 21st century.