First Televised Accession Council Marks the Start of the New Reign
A historic moment will unfold at St James’s Palace on Saturday as King Charles III is formally proclaimed monarch, following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. For the first time ever, the ceremony will be broadcast live, with the Accession Council convening at 10am to officially recognise Charles as the new king.
An hour later, at 11am, a Principal Proclamation will be read aloud by the Garter King of Arms on the balcony overlooking Friary Court. This will be followed by further proclamations across the country, including one in the City of London at the Royal Exchange at midday, and additional proclamations in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales on Sunday.
The proceedings come after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II at the age of 96 on Thursday at Balmoral Castle. King Charles, who succeeded her immediately upon her death, paid a deeply personal tribute to his late mother in his first public address. He expressed profound sorrow, describing her as an inspiration to him and his family, and vowed to serve the nation with “loyalty, respect, and love” as she did throughout her reign.
Reflecting on the Queen’s lifelong commitment to service, Charles recalled her 1947 promise to devote her life to the people she served. He pledged to continue her legacy, dedicating himself to uphold the Constitutional principles at the heart of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. He also announced that his eldest son, William, would now hold the title of Prince of Wales, with his wife Kate becoming the Princess of Wales.
The nation is currently in a period of mourning, which will culminate in a state funeral for Queen Elizabeth in the coming days. Thousands of people have gathered at royal landmarks to pay their respects, laying flowers in tribute. The emotional outpouring reflects the deep affection the nation has for its late monarch, described by many as “the nation’s grandmother.”
In his speech, Charles also acknowledged the changes his reign will bring, including the shift in his personal involvement with charitable causes. He ended his address with a heartfelt message to his mother, saying, “To my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: thank you.”
