Charles III's First Parliamentary Speech... UK's 'King's Speech' in 70 Years

King Charles III will deliver his first 'King's Speech' in Parliament on the 7th (local time) since his accession. King Charles previously delivered the speech (Queen's Speech) last year on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II during her reign. It is the first time in 70 years that a King's Speech is held in the UK.

The event begins as the King departs from Buckingham Palace to Westminster, and it will be broadcast live on TV from that moment. However, since 2019, due to advanced age, the Queen used a car instead of a carriage, wore everyday clothes, and did not wear a crown.

Upon arrival at Westminster, the King enters through the monarch's entrance and sits on the throne in the House of Lords. Then, the 'Black Rod' goes to the House of Commons to summon the members, and according to tradition, the House of Commons closes its doors to demonstrate parliamentary independence. After the Black Rod knocks on the door with a black staff, the door is opened and the procession proceeds.

Charles III, King of the United Kingdom.

One member of the House of Commons is taken hostage to guarantee the King's safe return. This is a British custom reflecting the historical conflict between royal authority and parliamentary power.

In the King's Speech, the King reads out the major bills the government plans to promote. The speech is also written by the government. This King's Speech is expected to include policies promoted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ahead of the general election.

According to the BBC, the speech will include new permits for North Sea oil and gas development, phased bans on tobacco sales, establishment of a new regulatory body for English football, mandatory attendance of defendants at sentencing hearings, leasing of overseas prison space, and mandatory imprisonment for repeat theft offenders.

King Charles III already has experience delivering the speech on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II last year. At that time, the Queen, citing mobility difficulties, entrusted the then Prince of Wales Charles with the important constitutional role of opening Parliament. This was interpreted as a signal that the transfer of the throne was gradually taking place.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.