Prince Charles had a glimpse into the future today, as he delivered his first speech at the State Opening of Parliament after The Queen's episodic mobility problems prevented her from attending the 68th annual event. Today, the Prince of Wales, who often attends the big day alongside his mother, assumed, for the first time in a fully formal context, the responsibilities of a monarch.
In the company of his wife, The Duchess of Cornwall, and his son, The Duke of Cambridge, Prince Charles seated onlookers, which included the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, Cabinet members and Labour frontbenchers, as he read his mother's speech. The speech, written by the Government, outlined the plan for the year ahead.
As Prince Charles began reading out the list of plans that the Government had for the upcoming year, he looked up down at the sheet of paper and delivered the speech in what some have called a 'deadpan' voice. Newsnight editor Lewis Goodall claimed that, when the Prince of Wales mentioned the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, it was one of the only times he didn't sound 'completely deadpan'.
Read more: Queen's Speech LIVE as Prince Charles set to replace monarch in historic move
Mr Goodall said: "This was one of the few moments Prince Charles didn’t sound completely deadpan. Monarch always does sound indifferent to what they’re saying on these occasions but Charles had it down to a fine art there."
Chris Smyth wrote on social media: "Prince Charles has been listening carefully - he's already adopting the tone of bored contempt that Her Majesty perfected over so many years."
"Prince Charles has got the monotone delivery down to a fine art." said Kit Bradshaw. Meanwhile, Chris observed: "Prince Charles looking uncomfortable reading that speech!"
In terms of the content of the speech, Prince Charles outlined 38 pieces of legislation. He first stated that it is the priority of Her Majesty's Government to help ease the cost of living for families in the UK.
Lower down on his sheet of paper, Charles read out plans for levelling up and regeneration, transport (including HS2), energy security, the Media Bill (which will privatise Channel 4), Brexit freedoms, setting up an independent football regulator, national security, and public order. Towards the end of the speech, Prince Charles mentioned the upcoming summer of celebration, and how The Queen was 'looking forward' to the events that will be taking place to commemorate her Platinum Jubilee.
The Prince of Wales said: "In this year, of the Platinum Jubilee, Her Majesty looks forward to the celebrations taking place across the United Kingdom, and throughout the Commonwealth. And to the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham this summer."
Let us know whether you watched the State Opening of Parliament by logging in and leaving a comment down below.
Click here for more stories about the Royal Family.
