The Accession Council and Principal Proclamation

Published

While the new Sovereign succeeds to the throne as soon as his or her predecessor dies, they are formally proclaimed at the Accession Council.

His Majesty The King was formally proclaimed at the Accession Council, held at St James’s Palace.

This historic ceremony, which was filmed for the first time, started with a meeting held by the Privy Council. The Queen Consort and Prince of Wales were present.

In the meeting, the Privy Council officially proclaimed His Majesty as King Charles III.

The King was present for the second part of the ceremony where he held his first Privy Council meeting.

His Majesty made a personal declaration and read and signed an oath to uphold the security of the Church in Scotland.

"I shall strive to follow the inspiring example I have been set in upholding constitutional government and to seek the peace, harmony and prosperity of the peoples of these Islands and of the Commonwealth Realms and Territories throughout the world."

After the Accession Council, the Principal Proclamation was made from the balcony overlooking Friary Court at St James's Palace. 

The Proclamation was read by Garter King of Arms, accompanied by the Earl Marshal, other Officers of Arms and the Serjeants at Arms. 

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