In a momentous display of loyalty, King Charles III has bestowed upon Princess Anne a remarkable role in his inaugural State Opening of Parliament speech.
The Princess Royal took center stage today as the gold stick-in-waiting, a position that holds the responsibility of ensuring the personal safety of the monarch.
This prestigious duty was not unfamiliar to Princess Anne, as she had previously fulfilled this role during the King’s coronation in May, where she courageously rode on horseback as the sovereign’s personal bodyguard.
Accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla, Princess Anne embarked on a grand procession towards the Houses of Parliament, seated in a carriage behind the royal couple.
Notably, this marked the first time since 1985 that Princess Anne had entered the chamber alongside her brother, further emphasizing the significance of her involvement.
The State Opening of Parliament signifies the commencement of the parliamentary year, with the King’s speech outlining the government’s forthcoming agenda.
It is important to note that King Charles does not actively participate in shaping the legislative program; rather, he dutifully reads out the list on behalf of Rishi Sunak and his government.
Regarding Princess Anne’s prominent role, a royal source expressed to the Mirror their admiration for the King’s decision, stating that it solidifies the Princess Royal’s position as his most trusted confidant.
When King Charles ascended to the throne, he appointed both Princess Anne and Prince Edward as councillors of state, enabling them to fulfill constitutional duties during times when the King is unable to do so.
As the procession unfolded, the same carriage that transported the royal couple during their coronation at Westminster Abbey in May made its appearance once again.
King Charles proudly wore his imperial state crown and robe of state, while Queen Camilla gracefully donned her Bruce Oldfield coronation dress.
Notably, she adorned the diamond diadem for the first time, a piece previously worn by Queen Elizabeth II during her coronation in 1953.