King Charles III has been officially declared ‘King’ at a meeting of the Council of Accession Saturday. Charles automatically became king when his mother and Britain’s longest-reigning Queen, Queen Elizabeth II, died on Thursday at the age of 96 after 70 years on the throne.
The accession ceremony is an important constitutional and ceremonial step to introduce the new monarch to the country. The ceremony was held at St James’s Palace, a royal residence located in London. The Accession Council is a group formed of Privy Counsellors, Great Officers of State, the Lord Mayor of London, Realm High Commissioners and senior civil servants, which convenes after the death of a monarch.
The event was televised for the first time in history and millions of Brits tuned in to watch the new monarch’s proclamation.
The ceremony was also attended by the king’s son Prince William.
Speaking about his “beloved mother,” the king said she “gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service.”
“The whole world sympathizes with me in the irreparable loss we’ve all suffered,” said Charles.
“My mother’s reign was unequalled in its duration, dedication and devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life. I am deeply aware of this deep inheritance and of the grave duties and responsibilities which are now passed to me.”
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