The Queen is to miss the State Opening of Parliament, and the Prince of Wales will read the Queen’s Speech on her behalf, Buckingham Palace has announced. The news came on Monday, May 9, with the reasoning given as the Queen's "episodic mobility problems".
Her Majesty is said to have "reluctantly decided" she will not attend, after recieving advice from her doctors. It means Prince Charles will instead carry out her duties - it is the first time in 59 years she will not be attending.
A statement issued by the palace said: “The Queen continues to experience episodic mobility problems, and in consultation with her doctors has reluctantly decided that she will not attend the State Opening of Parliament. At Her Majesty’s request, and with the agreement of the relevant authorities, The Prince of Wales will read The Queen’s speech on Her Majesty’s behalf."
It comes after the Queen missed events at Easter - it was also announced that she would not host royal garden parties this year. Palace aides say Her Majesty has a busy diary this week with a call with Australia undertaken today, a planned Privy Council and PM audience, virtual and by phone, on Wednesday. A royal source told the Mirror: "The decision was taken today."
To read all the biggest and best stories first sign up to read our newsletters here .
