The formal process of the proclamation of King Charles III is under way.
The Accession Council has held its first meeting of the day. Members gathered without the King. All 700 members of the Privy Council were called but with space for only 200, actual attendance was kept to the most senior members. A few dozen places were distributed by ballot.
Among those participating were all the living former Prime Ministers of The Queen’s reign. Sir John Major, Sir Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson all took part.
For the first time, the meeting was televised. Around 800 members of the public were also admitted to St. James’ Palace to hear the proclamation take place.
The meeting took place in the Picture Gallery. Just after 10am, they were called to attention and the Deputation Party arrived. Queen Camilla, the Prince of Wales, the Prime Minister, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Archbishop of York and the Earl Marshall all took their place.
The Lord President of the Council, Penny Morduant, then spoke to them to announce the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on September 8th 2022 at Balmoral.
She said ”I propose that, when certain necessary business has been transacted, a deputation consisting of Her Majesty, His Royal Highness, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Lord Chancellor, The Archbishop of York, The Prime Minister, The Clerk of the Council, and myself shall wait on The King and inform him that the council is assembled.”
The Clerk then read the text of the declaration, naming Charles as King.
The declaration proclamation was then signed by the Deputation Party with the Prince of Wales going first, followed by Queen Camilla.
Once the signing was completed, The Lord President of the Council asked the Declaration Party to join her in waiting on The King and they left.
The Council now moves to the Throne Room for the second part of the Accession Council.
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