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Public to line streets as Queen’s coffin leaves Balmoral for Edinburgh – here’s the route it will take | UK News

Thousands are expected to turn out on the streets of Scotland later as the Queen’s coffin is driven from Balmoral to Edinburgh.

Six gamekeepers from the estate will lift it into a hearse at 10am, with the journey expected to take about six hours.

She will rest at Edinburgh’s Holyroodhouse – the monarch’s official Scottish residence – to allow staff to pay their respects.

Live updates: William, Kate, Harry and Meghan reunite – as Queen’s coffin to take first step in journey to London

The public will get their first chance to see the coffin at rest on Monday, when it moves to the city’s St Giles’ Cathedral.

Today’s road journey will:

• Reach Ballater at around 10.12am
• Make its way through Aboyne, Banchory, Peterculter
• Arrive in Aberdeen at around 11.20am, moving through the city’s suburbs
• Move through Porthleven, Stonehaven before heading inland
• Head through the Angus countryside and past Brechin
• Arrive in Dundee at around 2.15pm, where it will go around the city on the Kingsway
• Head towards Perth, across the Friarton Bridge and down the M90
• Go over the Queensferry Crossing towards Edinburgh
• Enter Edinburgh from the west, skirt by Edinburgh Castle
• Down the full length of the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse by about 4pm

Watch Sky News live from 10am as a cortege takes the coffin from Balmoral to Edinburgh.

The Queen’s coffin will remain overnight in the Throne Room at Holyroodhouse, before the King and Queen Consort join a procession to the cathedral on Monday afternoon.

Public viewing of the coffin begins at 5pm on Monday but people have been warned of long waits, and photography and recording is strictly prohibited.

The King and other senior royals will keep constant watch around the coffin, known as the Vigil of the Princes, from 7.20pm on Monday.

Princess Anne will fly to London with her mother’s body on Tuesday.

The events in Scotland are the first meticulously planned steps leading to the funeral in Westminster Abbey on Monday 19 September – a day that will be a bank holiday.

Read more
Day-by-day guide to what happens until Queen’s funeral
From school bullies to Diana tragedy – the events that shaped Charles

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Key moments of King’s accession

King proclaimed in historic ceremony

On Saturday, Charles III was officially proclaimed King in an ancient ceremony at St James’s Palace in London.

The Accession Council meeting took place in front of Privy Counsellors including Prince William, the Archbishop of Canterbury and six former prime ministers.

Standing before the throne, the King said his mother’s reign was “unequalled in its duration, dedication and devotion”.

The ceremony included trumpeters, a rendition of the national anthem and “three cheers for the King”. An hour later, a second proclamation was read at the Royal Exchange in the City of London.

Prince Andrew and the Queen’s other children and grandchildren had earlier come together to look at the flowers left for the Queen at Balmoral.

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Tearful royals view tributes at Balmoral

“We’ve been allowed one day, now we start the process of handing her on,” Andrew said as he thanked well-wishers.

Several members of the family were seen wiping away tears as they read the public’s messages.

There was also a touching tribute from Prince William as the new heir paid tribute to his “Grannie” in a statement published on Twitter.

“She was by my side at my happiest moments. And she was by my side during the saddest days of my life,” he said.

“I knew this day would come, but it will be some time before the reality of life without Grannie will truly feel real.”

The prince said he was grateful his children got to spend precious years in her company, creating “memories that will last their whole lives”.

Read more:
King reveals new signature – and appears to show royal cypher
Line of succession – who’s now closer to the throne

Leave your tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

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‘Fab Four’ together again to meet crowds

Princes set aside rift in show of unity

However, it was an unscheduled event that made most newspaper front pages on Sunday – with William and Prince Harry seemingly putting aside their rift to meet the public in Windsor.

The brothers were joined by Kate and Meghan and the couples greeted people for over 45 minutes on the town’s Long Walk.

It’s understood Prince William reached out to his brother with the hope of putting on a show of unity after their much-publicised falling out of the last few years.

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The King had set the tone on Friday when he stopped outside Buckingham Palace to meet the public – a move that was widely praised – and one he repeated on Saturday near Clarence House.

One of his first engagements is an audience with the Commonwealth secretary-general at Buckingham Palace on Sunday, before later meeting high commissioners from countries where he is head of state.

Looking ahead to next week, the Queen’s coffin will be taken to Buckingham Palace after it lands in London on Tuesday, allowing staff to pay their respects.

It will then be taken to Westminster Hall on Wednesday, and on Thursday four clear days of lying in state begin – with hundreds of thousands expected to file past the coffin.

QUEEN DIES 9PM SPECIAL PROMO_100922-VER2
Thousands expected to line route as Queen’s coffin leaves Balmoral for six-hour journey to to Edinburgh | UK News

Thousands are expected to turn out on the streets of Scotland later as the Queen’s coffin is driven from Balmoral to Edinburgh.

Six gamekeepers from the estate will lift her oak coffin into a hearse at 10am, with the journey expected to take about six hours.

She will rest at Edinburgh’s Holyroodhouse – the monarch’s official Scottish residence – to allow staff to pay their respects.

Live updates: William, Kate, Harry and Meghan reunite – as King greets crowds after historic ceremony

The public will get their first chance to see the coffin on Monday, when it moves to the city’s St Giles Cathedral.

Today’s journey goes through some of the stunning countryside the Queen loved so much, arriving in Aberdeen at about 11.20am and moving through the city’s suburbs.

Heading south, the cortege will arrive in Dundee around 2.15pm and then head towards Perth, before picking up the M90 motorway.

The biggest crowds are likely to be in Edinburgh, where the route takes in the full length of the famous Royal Mile – the city’s main tourist area – at about 4pm.

Watch Sky News live from 10am as a cortege takes the coffin from Balmoral to Edinburgh.

The Queen will rest overnight in the Throne Room at Holyroodhouse, before the King and Queen Consort join a procession to the cathedral on Monday afternoon.

Public viewing of the coffin begins at 5pm on Monday but people have been warned of long waits, and photography and recording is strictly prohibited.

The King and other senior royals will keep constant watch around the coffin, known as the Vigil of the Princes, from 7.20pm on Monday.

Princess Anne will fly to London with her mother’s body on Tuesday.

The events in Scotland are the first meticulously planned steps leading to the funeral in Westminster Abbey on Monday 19 September – a day that will be a bank holiday.

Read more
Day-by-day guide to what happens until Queen’s funeral
From school bullies to Diana tragedy – the events that shaped Charles

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Key moments of King’s accession

King proclaimed in historic ceremony

On Saturday, Charles III was officially proclaimed King in an ancient ceremony at St James’s Palace in London.

The Accession Council meeting took place in front of Privy Counsellors including Prince William, the Archbishop of Canterbury and six former prime ministers.

Standing before the throne, the King said his mother’s reign was “unequalled in its duration, dedication and devotion”.

The ceremony included trumpeters, a rendition of the national anthem and “three cheers for the King”. An hour later, a second proclamation was read at the Royal Exchange in the City of London.

Prince Andrew and the Queen’s other children and grandchildren had earlier come together to look at the flowers left for the Queen at Balmoral.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Tearful royals view tributes at Balmoral

“We’ve been allowed one day, now we start the process of handing her on,” Andrew said as he thanked well-wishers.

Several members of the family were seen wiping away tears as they read the public’s messages.

There was also a touching tribute from Prince William as the new heir paid tribute to his “Grannie” in a statement published on Twitter.

“She was by my side at my happiest moments. And she was by my side during the saddest days of my life,” he said.

“I knew this day would come, but it will be some time before the reality of life without Grannie will truly feel real.”

The prince said he was grateful his children got to spend precious years in her company, creating “memories that will last their whole lives”.

Read more:
King reveals new signature – and appears to show royal cypher
Line of succession – who’s now closer to the throne

Leave your tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

‘Fab Four’ together again to meet crowds

Princes set aside rift in show of unity

However, it was unscheduled event that made most newspaper front pages on Sunday – with William and Prince Harry seemingly putting aside their rift to meet the public in Windsor.

The brothers were joined by Kate and Meghan and the couples greeted people for over 45 minutes on the town’s Long Walk.

It’s understood Prince William reached out to his brother with the hope of putting on a show of unity after their much-publicised falling out of the last few years.

The King had set the tone on Friday when he stopped outside Buckingham Palace on Friday to meet the public – a move that was widely praised – and one he repeated on Saturday near Clarence House.

One of his first engagements is an audience with the Commonwealth secretary-general at Buckingham Palace on Sunday, before later meeting high commissioners from countries where he is head of state.

Looking ahead to next week, the Queen’s coffin will be taken to Buckingham Palace after it lands in London on Tuesday, allowing staff to pay their respects.

It will then be taken to Westminster Hall on Wednesday, and on Thursday four clear days of lying in state begin – with hundreds of thousands expected to file past the coffin.

QUEEN DIES 9PM SPECIAL PROMO_100922-VER2
Stormzy joins protesters demanding justice for Chris Kaba | UK News

Stormzy has joined protestors in support of the family of Chris Kaba, who was shot dead by armed Metropolitan Police officers in south London.

A march took place through London on Saturday over the death of Mr Kaba, with crowds gathering outside Scotland Yard demanding justice for the 24-year-old.

Mr Kaba, who was due to become a father, died in hospital in the early hours of Tuesday after being shot following a chase with police on Monday night in Streatham Hill.

Chris Kaba
Image:
Chris Kaba

Vossi Bop singer Stormzy, 29, spoke at the march, saying: “Chris has a mother, he has a family, he has brothers, he has friends, people who knew him in real life, who for them, it’s unbearable.”

He said there was no way to “sugar coat” what had happened to Mr Kaba and urged them to “have stamina” in their efforts to raise awareness of his death and the events surrounding it.

“Everyone here today, I would encourage everyone to have stamina,” he said.

“And I know it’s a very difficult thing to say… But when these people do these things, they get away with it, because what happens is we do this once, we get tired, we tweet, we get tired, we do it for a week, we do it for two weeks, we do it for a month, and they know we get tired.”

“What they’ve done is they’ve killed someone. We can’t sugar coat it,” he added.

Hackney Labour MP Diane Abbott and Streatham Labour MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy were also at the event in the capital, which saw supporters in the crowd carrying signs saying “Justice for Chris Kaba” and “Black Lives Matter”.

Calls for officer to be immediately suspended

Mr Kaba’s car was stopped, the Met said, following the activation of an automatic number plate recognition camera, which indicated the car had been “linked to a firearms offence in the previous days”.

His family called for a murder investigation after it emerged no firearm was found on him.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched a homicide investigation into the incident.

Mr Kaba’s family have demanded the firearms officer involved be “immediately suspended” pending the result of the IOPC investigation.

Met Assistant Commissioner Amanda Pearson said on Friday the officer involved is not currently on operational duties and their work status will be carefully considered going forward.

She said the force was cooperating fully with the IOPC investigation.

Credit: Miranda Grell
Image:
Stormzy joined protestors. Photo: Miranda Grell

‘He was so loved’

Kim Alleyne, whose daughter Karimah Waite was engaged to Mr Kaba and carrying his child, said the pair were due to marry early next year.

She said: “He was so loved. He was so funny. He was super kind.

“He’s got a baby on the way that he’s never going to see.”

MPs pledge allegiance to King Charles III in rare Saturday Commons sitting | Politics News

Senior MPs have pledged their allegiance to King Charles III in a rare Saturday Commons sitting.

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle was the first to do so.

He was followed by Father of the House, the longest serving male MP, Conservative Sir Peter Bottomley.

Then came the Mother of the House, the longest serving female MP, Labour’s Harriet Harman.

Cabinet ministers to meet with new King – live updates

New Prime Minister Liz Truss, who only gained the keys to Number 10 on Tuesday, followed them.

She said: “I swear by almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to law, so help me God.”

Next were members of the Conservative whips’ office, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey and the SNP’s Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

Plaid Cymru’s Westminster leader Liz Saville Roberts took an oath in both English and Welsh.

She was followed by former Conservative PM Theresa May and current Deputy PM Therese Coffey.

At the same time, senior members of the House of Lords, including Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby, also swore the oath of allegiance to the King.

Sir Lindsay said that “time constraints” meant only some MPs could take the oath or affirm on Saturday, but that further time to do so would be made available at a later date.

Every MP will have the option of taking an oath or affirming to the King when the commons returns after the period of national mourning – but they are not obliged to.

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Accession Council declares new King

It is only the sixth time that the commons has sat on a Saturday since the Second World War.

The other times were:

• 2 September 1939 – for the outbreak of the Second World War

• 30 July 1949 – for summer adjournment debates

• 3 November 1956 – to discuss the Suez Crisis

• 3 April 1982 – to discuss the Falkland Islands invasion

• 19 October 2019 – to discuss Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal

Both the House of Commons and House of Lords also met from midday on Friday to allow for MPs and peers to pay their respects to the Queen following her death.

The Commons chamber was a sea of black as MPs stood for a minute’s silence before Ms Truss led Friday’s tributes, saying that the Queen was “one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known”.

She added: “As we meet today, we remember the pledge she made on her 21st birthday to dedicate her life to service. The whole House will agree, never has a promise been so completely fulfilled.”

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Three MPs pay tribute to Queen

Speaking for the first time since returning to the Conservative back benches earlier in the week, Boris Johnson said: “The fact that today we can say with such confidence, God save the King is a tribute to him, but above all, to Elizabeth the Great who worked so hard for the good of her country, not just now, but for generations to come.

“That is why we mourn her so deeply. And it is in the depths of our grief that we understand why we loved her so much.”

Sir Keir added: “The loss of our Queen robs this country of its still point, its greatest comfort at precisely the time we need those things most.

While former PM Mrs May said the Queen was “the most remarkable person I have ever met”.

The event was also littered with laughter and fond memories of the Queen who ruled for more than 70 years.

Parliament’s tributes followed an outpouring of grief from across the political spectrum as the world digested news of the Queen’s death at the age of 96.

MPs will continue paying tribute to the Queen this afternoon.

Metropolitan Police officer subject to homicide investigation over fatal shooting of Chris Kaba | UK News

A firearms officer at the Metropolitan Police is the subject of a homicide investigation over the fatal shooting of soon-to-be father Chris Kaba.

Mr Kaba died in hospital in the early hours of Tuesday morning after being shot following a chase with police on Monday night in Streatham Hill, south London.

The police watchdog, which is investigating the incident, said a single round had been fired by armed officers.

In a statement, the Met’s assistant commissioner Amanda Pearson confirmed: “The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) have announced that a firearms officer is now subject to a homicide investigation.

“My thoughts and sympathies remain with Mr Kaba’s friends and family with this news. I also know how concerned our communities are and how they will also be affected by this significant update. We share their concern.

“The Met is co-operating fully as the IOPC work to independently establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.”

The officer is not currently on operational duties due to the “formal post incident process”, the statement added.

“A senior officer will now carefully consider their work status going forward,” it said.

The scene in Kirkstall Gardens, Streatham Hill, south London, where a man was shot by armed officers from the Metropolitan Police following a pursuit on Monday evening. The man, believed to be in his 20s, has died in hospital. Picture date: Tuesday September 6, 2022.
Image:
The scene in Kirkstall Gardens, Streatham Hill

‘A baby that he’s never going to see’

Mr Kaba’s car was stopped, the force said, following the activation of an automatic number plate recognition camera, which indicated the car had been “linked to a firearms offence in the previous days”.

His family called for a murder investigation after it emerged no firearm was found on him.

Kim Alleyne, whose daughter Karimah Waite was engaged to Mr Kaba and carrying his child, said the pair were due to marry early next year.

She said: “He was so loved. He was so funny. He was super kind.

“He’s got a baby on the way that he’s never going to see.”

'He was so loved' says Chris Kaba's girlfriends mother.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the IOPC’s investigation was a “significant development”.

“I fully understand the grave concerns and impact of Chris’ death on black Londoners across our city and the anger, pain and fear it has caused – as well as the desire for justice and change,” he said.

“I appreciate that there are many unanswered questions and I want to reassure all of London’s communities that I will continue to push for these to be answered.”

The IOPC stressed this development does not mean any criminal offence is proven at this point.

“We continue to ask that people avoid speculating about this incident out of respect for Mr Kaba’s family and for everyone else affected,” the watchdog said.

‘My life will change’: Five key takeaways from King Charles’s historic address | UK News

King Charles III has given his first address to the nation after the Queen’s 70-year reign came to an end on Thursday.

His Majesty paid tribute to his “beloved mother” as he made a “solemn pledge” to serve the country with “loyalty, respect and love”.

Here we take a look at five key takeaways from the historic address.

‘My life will change’

King Charles developed a reputation for being outspoken when he was the Prince of Wales.

He is well-known for having championed causes such as fighting climate change and advocating medicines and alternative therapies.

Tears, cheers, and a kiss for the King – live updates

As the Prince of Wales, he was sometimes accused of meddling in political and social matters which might not concern him, and believed he should be able to speak freely about issues which he felt were important to the country.

However in his address to the nation, he hinted he will change his behaviour now he is head of state.

“My life will of course change as I take up my new responsibilities,” he said.

“It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.”

King Charles’s change of approach would be in line with comments he made in 2018 where he acknowledged being heir-to-the-throne and being monarch were two very different roles.

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Harry and Meghan

King Charles also sent his love to his son Prince Harry and his wife Meghan.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been living in California since stepping back as senior royals in 2020.

The Queen is said to have been disappointed after Harry and Meghan failed to consult her about their decision.

King Charles said in his address: “I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas.”

Prince Harry arrives at Balmoral shortly after his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II passed away.
Image:
Prince Harry arrived at Balmoral shortly after his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II passed away

William and Kate

In one of the key moments of the speech, King Charles said he was “proud” to hand his son William his former title of Prince of Wales.

The monarch added he had been “so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty”.

Meanwhile, William’s wife Catherine has become the first person since Diana to use the title Princess of Wales.

The King said: “With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given.”

The couple’s children are now Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis of Wales.

King Charles also said William “now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me”.

“He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades,” he added.

EMBARGOED TO 2230 BST WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 7 Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, accompanied by their parents the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, arrive for a settling in afternoon at Lambrook School, near Ascot in Berkshire. The settling in afternoon is an annual event held to welcome new starters and their families to Lambrook and takes place the day before the start of the new school term. Picture date: Wednesday September 7, 2022.
Image:
The Prince and Princess of Wales with Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte

Tributes to the Queen

The King paid tribute to his “beloved mother” as an “inspiration and example to me and to all my family”.

“Queen Elizabeth’s was a life well-lived; a promise with destiny kept, and she is mourned most deeply in her passing,” he said.

The King continued: “In 1947, on her 21st birthday, she pledged in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her peoples.

“That was more than a promise: it was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life. She made sacrifices for duty.”

Read more:
King Charles in pictures
The events that shaped Britain’s new King

King Charles also said his mother’s “dedication and devotion as Sovereign never waivered” and the “affection, admiration and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign”.

He added: “Every member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with warmth, humour and an unerring ability always to see the best in people.”

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Watch the King’s speech in full

How he plans to lead

King Charles said his faith is “deeply rooted” in the Church of England and he was “brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others”.

“As the Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation,” he said.

“And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.”

What we learned from King Charles’s first address to the nation | UK News

It was our first opportunity to hear from him. A new King, a man expected to lead the UK in tribute and a son in mourning.

The sense of loss for his “dear Mama” clearly profound.

In the most heart-warming terms, he expressed what she had meant to him, his siblings and her grandchildren.

Memorial service for Queen held at St Paul’s Cathedral – live updates

“We owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding, and example,” he said as he shared a more personal side, her “warmth, humour and an unerring ability always to see the best in people”.

It was a reminder of how Queen Elizabeth II often kept the family together during the most challenging times, as he went on to tactfully but clearly answer the questions many have asked ahead of this new reign.

He confirmed that Camilla, in recognition of her devotion to public service, will be Queen Consort.

He announced that Prince William and Kate are now to be known as the Prince and Princess of Wales, a royal source later saying that Kate “appreciates the history associated with this role but will understandably want to look to the future as she creates her own path”.

And despite everything what has happened, the King also publicly expressed his love for Harry and Meghan.

As he takes on this new role at the age of 73, he acknowledged he has already led a full life as heir, he has his own style but like his mother, his pledge was clear.

“That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today,” he said, reflecting on that famous speech his mother made to serve until the end when she was just 21.

Read more:
What changes with the Queen’s death – and when?
Photographer reveals story behind Queen’s last public picture

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God Save The King sung for first time

But the more pressing question about whether we will continue to see his campaigning streak now he is head of state was also seamlessly addressed.

A man who’s been criticised at times for straying too close to the line of political neutrality, and even over stepping it, he said: “I have been brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others, and to hold in the greatest respect the precious traditions, freedoms, and responsibilities of our unique history and our system of parliamentary government.

“As the Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation.”

The baton seemingly now being passed to his son William, not just as his heir, but giving us a strong sense he will rely on him and Kate to “continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given”.

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His final lines set the tone for the coming days.

“To my darling Mama,” he said. “As you begin your last great journey to join my dear late papa, I want simply to say this: thank you.

“Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years. May ‘flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest’,” he said.

It conveyed a softness, a deep appreciation that while now is his moment to step up, it is most importantly a time for measured heartfelt reflection in memory of a monarch who meant so much to so many.

Queen’s death: What is the Accession Council and how does it proclaim a new monarch? | UK News

Charles became King the moment his mother died under the old common law rule that ensures Britain is never without a monarch and “the King never dies”.

Although it may be several months before he is crowned, the formal process of proclaiming him King – the Accession Council – begins almost straight away.

Charles prepares for first nationwide address – follow live updates

Here Sky News takes a closer look at the Accession Council and the part it plays in transitioning to a new monarch.

Friary Court at St James's Palace
Image:
Friary Court at St James’s Palace

What is the Accession Council?

The Accession Council is a group made up of Privy Counsellors, Great Officers of State, the Lord Mayor of London, Realm High Commissioners and senior civil servants.

It only convenes on the death of the monarch, which last happened when King George VI died in 1952.

Members meet as soon as is practically possible after the monarch dies, usually within 24 hours, at St James’s Palace in London.

Following the Queen’s death it will take place slightly later, at 10am on Saturday, 10 September, and will be televised for the first time in history.

It oversees the formal proclamation of the heir to the throne becoming King or Queen, and is split into two parts.

According to Sky News royal commentator Alastair Bruce: “The accession council is a constitutional necessity.

“It derives from Saxon times when all the great chiefs of the land would meet and elect from the living descendants of the god King Woden.”

Prince William and the Queen Consort are both Privy Counsellors
Image:
Prince William and the Queen Consort are both Privy Counsellors

Who are its members?

The Accession Council is largely made up of Privy Counsellors and is chaired by its leader, the Lord President of the Council – currently Penny Mordaunt MP – who is also the Leader of the House of Commons.

The Privy Council has more than 700 members, but with only room for around 150 people in the State Apartments at St James’s Palace, only active members are likely to attend.

Summonses are sent to all Privy Counsellors, however, which include past prime ministers, their ministers and leaders of the opposition.

The Queen Consort and Prince William will both be there as Privy Counsellors, as will Sir Angus Ogilvy, who is married to the Queen’s cousin Alexandra.

The Lord Mayor of London – currently Vincent Keaveny – will also be invited, alongside the High Commissioners or acting High Commissioners of all 14 Commonwealth states.

Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, and the secretary of state for Scotland are also part of the Accession Council, along with the current Lord Chancellor and the Lord President of the Court of Session.

Trade minister Penny Mordaunt speaking in the House of Commons, London, where she took aim at her ministerial boss by joking she was "amazed" to be back at the Commons despatch box given her "reported work ethic"
Image:
Leader of the House of Commons, Penny Mordaunt, is the Lord President of the Council

Part One

The first meeting of the Accession Council takes place without the new King or Queen to formerly proclaim them the new sovereign.

It happens at St James’s Palace – formerly the main London residence of the monarch until it moved to Buckingham Palace in the 1800s.

King George VI died in the “early hours” of 6 February 1952, with the council meeting for the first time 17 hours later. There were 191 council members present.

The meeting begins with the Lord President announcing the death of the monarch and calling upon the Clerk of the Council to read the Accession Proclamation.

Proclamation of the Accession Council of Queen Elizabeth III in 1952
Image:
Proclamation of the Accession Council of Queen Elizabeth III in 1952

The Queen’s proclamation text read: “Whereas it has pleased Almighty God to call to his mercy our late sovereign Lord King George VI of blessed and glorious memory, by whose decease the Crown is solely and rightfully come to the high and mighty Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary.

“We, therefore, the Lords Spiritual and Temporal of this Realm, being here assisted with these his late Majesty’s Privy Council, with representatives of other members of the Commonwealth, with other principal gentlemen of quality, with the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Citizens of London, do now hereby with one voice and consent of tongue and heart publish and proclaim that the high and mighty Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary is now, by the death of our late sovereign of happy memory, become Queen Elizabeth II.

“By the grace of God Queen of this realm and of all her other realms and territories, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith, to whom her lieges do acknowledge all faith and constant obedience with hearty and humble affection, beseeching God by whom Kings and Queens do reign, to bless the Royal Princess Elizabeth II with long and happy years to reign over us.”

The proclamation is usually the first time the new monarch’s official title is revealed, but on this occasion, Clarence House has already announced he will go by King Charles III.

After the proclamation text has been read, it is then signed by members of the “platform party”, which include any royals who are Privy Counsellors, the prime minister, Lord Chancellor, Lord Privy Seal, Earl Marshal, and the Archbishops of Canterbury and York.

The Lord President calls for silence and then reads any remaining items of business.

Part Two

The second meeting of the Accession Council is attended by the new monarch and is effectively their first meeting of the Privy Council – as it is only attended by Privy Counsellors.

Traditionally the second part takes place immediately after the first, but as the Queen was abroad when her father died, it took place two days later once she was back in England.

This time it will begin at 11am on Saturday with the King reading a personal declaration about the death of his mother.

The Queen’s read: “By the sudden death of my dear father, I am called to assume the duties and responsibilities of sovereignty.

“At this time of deep sorrow, it is a profound consolation to me to be assured of the sympathy which you and all my peoples feel towards me, to my mother and sister and to the other members of my family.

“My father was our revered and beloved head as he was of the wider family of his subjects. The grief which his loss brings is shared among us all.

“My heart is too full for me to say more to you today than that I shall always work as my father did throughout his reign to uphold constitutional government and to advance the happiness and prosperity of my peoples spread as they are all the world over.

“I know that in my resolve to follow his shining example of service and devotion, I shall be inspired by the loyalty and affection of those whose Queen I have been called to be, and by the counsel of their elected parliaments. I pray that God will help me to discharge worthily this heavy task that has been laid upon me so early in my life.”

Read more:
King Charles returns to London
The new King’s life so far in pictures

The monarch then reads the Scottish Oath, which has been taken by every King and Queen of England since George I’s accession in 1714.

It dates back to a time when Catholic Europe was seen as an existential threat to Britain and protects the
security of the Church of Scotland – as unlike in England – church and state are separate there.

The Queen’s Scottish oath read: “I, Queen Elizabeth II by the grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of my other realms and territories King, Defender of the Faith, do faithfully promise and swear that I shall inviolably maintain and preserve the settlement of the true Protestant religion as established by the laws made in Scotland in prosecution of the claim of right and particularly by an act intituled ‘An act for securing the Protestant Religion and Presbyterian Church Government’ and by the acts passed in the parliament of both Kingdoms for Union of the two Kingdoms, together with the government, worship, discipline, rights and privileges of the Church of Scotland. So help me God.”

Thousands gather for the reading of the Queen's proclamation at the Royal Exchange in London in 1952
Image:
Thousands gather for the reading of the Queen’s proclamation at the Royal Exchange in London in 1952

The monarch then signs two instruments that records their signing of the oath, which are witnessed by the royal members of the Privy Council, the first minister of Scotland, lord advocate of Scotland, secretary of state for Scotland, advocate general for Scotland – if they are a Privy Counsellor – the Lord Chancellor and the Lord President of the Court of Session.

One copy goes to the Court of Session to be recorded in the Books of Sederunt and the other is kept in the Books of the Privy Council.

The Lord President of the Council then goes through any remaining items of business before each counsellor signs the proclamation and leaves.

Traditionally, trumpeters from the Life Guards and drummers from the Coldstream Guards play after the meeting finishes.

The Garter King of Arms, Earl Marshal, officers and sergeants of arms will then gather on the balcony above Friary Court at St James’s Palace and read the proclamation.

Read more:
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Straight after it will be read at the Royal Exchange in the City of London – in the presence of the Lord Mayor of London.

Subsequent readings will follow in Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast and locations across the Commonwealth at 12pm on Sunday.

Flags will be flown at full-mast again from the principal reading of the proclamation until the following ones in the four nations.

They will then return to half-mast as a mark of respect for the Queen.

A record of the entire Accession Council proceedings is published in the London Gazette – the UK’s official public record.

Queen’s death: Sporting events postponed with Premier League yet to make decision | UK News

A number of scheduled sporting events have been postponed after the death of the Queen, with further decisions regarding the weekend’s fixtures set to be taken on Friday.

The death of Queen Elizabeth II, who was Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, was announced by Buckingham Palace on Thursday evening.

Sports stars and governing bodies have paid tribute to Her Majesty, and event organisers have been considering the best course of action.

Worldwide tributes pour in for ‘remarkable’ Queen – live updates

Although many have already announced their decisions, the Premier League has still not revealed its plans, with an update expected on Friday morning.

Here are all the sporting events that have been postponed:

Racing

Arguably the Queen’s favourite sport, racing events have also been postponed this weekend.

Races at Southwell and Chelmsford on Thursday evening were abandoned after the news of her death.

The British Horseracing Authority announced that meetings scheduled for Friday – including the third day of the St Leger meeting at Doncaster – have been cancelled.

Queen Elizabeth II watching as her horse Free Agent, ridden by Richard Hughes, wins the Chesham Stakes at Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire. Horses, like dogs, were the Queen's lifelong love and she had an incredible knowledge of breeding and bloodlines. Whether it was racing thoroughbreds or ponies, she showed an unfailing interest. Issue date: Thursday September 8, 2022.
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The Queen watching her horse Free Agent win the Chesham Stakes at Ascot

Football

The English Football League postponed two matches scheduled for Friday – Burnley v Norwich in the Championship and Tranmere v Stockport in League Two.

The Scottish Professional Football League has also postponed its Championship contest between Dundee and Cove Rangers as a mark of respect.

Manchester United’s home clash in the Europa League with Real Sociedad went ahead on Thursday night, with the club saying: “Following direction from the FA and UEFA, tonight’s UEFA Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad will take place as planned at Old Trafford.”

A minute’s silence was held before kick-off, both teams wore black armbands and flags at Old Trafford flew at half-mast in a show of respect.

The Northern Ireland Football League announced that Friday night’s matches between Cliftonville and Glentoran and Larne and Dungannon had been postponed.

Manchester United take part in a minutes silence following the announcement of the death of Queen Elizabeth II prior to the UEFA Europa League Group E match at Old Trafford, Manchester. Picture date: Thursday September 8, 2022

Rugby

Northampton announced the postponement of their Premiership Rugby Cup clash against Saracens scheduled for Thursday evening.

The Scottish Rugby Union has delayed all domestic competitive games this weekend as a mark of respect, and the women’s summer Test international between Scotland and Spain on Sunday is also off.

The RFL postponed Friday’s Betfred Championship fixture between Sheffield Eagles and Dewsbury Rams, but the first Super League elimination play-off between Catalans Dragons and Leeds will go ahead as it is taking place in Perpignan, France.

Further announcements about the weekend’s fixtures at all levels were set to be made “as soon as possible”, the governing body said.

Cricket

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced that Friday’s play in the men’s third Test between England and South Africa at the Oval would not take place.

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The life of the Queen

Golf

Play was suspended on the first day of the PGA Championship golf at Wentworth when news of the Queen’s death was announced, and the European Tour has confirmed there will be no play on Friday.

“Out of respect for Her Majesty and the Royal Family, play has been suspended at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club for the remainder of Thursday and flags at Wentworth Club will be lowered to half-mast,” a Tour statement said.

“Furthermore, no play will take place at the BMW PGA Championship on Friday and the golf course and practice facilities will be closed. Further updates on the resumption of play will be provided in due course.”

A screen displays a message that play has been suspended following the announcement of the death of Queen Elizabeth II, during day one of the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Golf Club, Virginia Water. Picture date: Thursday September 8, 2022.
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Cycling

Friday’s Tour of Britain stage was promptly cancelled and later on Thursday evening the rest of the tour, which was set to finish on the Isle of Wight on Sunday, was called off entirely.

Formula One

The Italian Grand Prix will go ahead as scheduled on Sunday, with a minute’s silence planned before practice on Friday and another expected before the race.

A life of service until the very end, surrounded by her family in a home she loved | UK News

In the rain they gathered outside Buckingham Palace.

A journey some will have made many times before for moments of celebration, now standing together to pay their respects.

The shock at the news was compounded by the fact that we’d only seen the Queen on Tuesday, carrying out one of her most important constitutional roles as she was adamant that she would welcome her 15th Prime Minister at Balmoral.

But the statement from the palace at lunchtime on Thursday had been ominous, her family rushing to be by her side adding more concern.

Live updates: Worldwide tributes pour in for ‘remarkable’ Queen

The enormity of the news that came at 6.30pm, that she had died at Balmoral, will only truly sink in over the coming days.

More on the Queen:
Mourners gather at Buckingham Palace to pay their respects
Six moments that defined the Queen’s reign

This will now be a period where the pendulum of events will swing between mourning the death of a much loved monarch and the country welcoming a new king.

The constitutional change is immediate and immense. King Charles III has already taken on all the responsibilities of head of state, but at the same time will also be dealing with a very personal grief with the loss of his beloved mother.

More on the King:
King to be known as Charles III – as William and Kate become Duke and Duchess of Cornwall
Will Charles bring a different type of reign?

As we think of her family together at Balmoral, a place where they spent so many summers together, the final days for the monarch could not have been more fitting.

She didn’t have to give up on her duties, she was able to live a life of service until the very end. And most importantly her family were there, in a home she loved, secluded from the public gaze.