Prince Charles attended the State Opening of Parliament on behalf of his mother, the Queen, on Tuesday, stepping forward to deliver his Speech at the Houses of Parliament while sitting in the consort’s seat next to the monarch’s throne.
The Prince of Wales taking up the mantle from his ailing mother marked a new era in the monarchy, according to Express UK, and it is said that Charles is getting closer to his future and last role as King.
In another royal first at Tuesday’s event, the Queen’s grandson, Prince William, was also present at the event to witness his father read the speech that set the Government’s legislative agenda.
Prince Charles, wearing his Admiral of the Fleet uniform, reportedly did not take the Queen’s throne as he made the speech, but instead sat in the consort’s seat to send the message that he was only intervening in name of your mother.
The Queen’s absence from the State Parliament was confirmed on Monday, ending days of speculation over whether she would be able to attend due to her health and mobility problems.
Commenting on the timing, royal expert Peter Hunt said: “Charles will speed up his on-the-job training. The heir is on the verge of becoming a de facto prince regent. William will observe what awaits him.
“With the Queen gradually withdrawing from public life, the palace wishes to show that the monarchy is safe in the hands of father and son,” he concluded.