King Charles and Queen Camilla Show United Front as His Majesty Opens Parliament, Marking Start of New Government

Today is a very important day for His Royal Highness King Charles . (And not just because it’s his wife Queen Camilla’s 77th birthday . HBD to Her Majesty!)

Earlier this morning, the king, 75, and queen, 77, departed from Buckingham Palace by carriage procession to travel to the Palace of Westminster for the State Opening of Parliament, which is the formal start of the work of the new government.

Upon their arrival, per The New York Times , the 75-year-old monarch (who is still undergoing cancer treatment ) did a quick wardrobe change and emerged from the Robing Room donning the Robe of State (AKA a red velvet cape). Also, His Majesty wore the Imperial State Crown on top of his head, which is adorned with 2,868 diamonds and various jewels.

Both King Charles and Queen Camilla showed a united front as they entered the Palace of Westminster, where the monarch prepared to deliver his speech which, according to a post shared on the U.K. House of Lords’ Instagram page , sets out upcoming legislation and planned State Visits for the year. In the photo below, His and Her Majesty walk side-by-side while holding hands—a true display of the strong bond they share as a royal couple.

Hannah McKay - WPA Pool/Getty Images

In addition, the king delivered the speech from the Sovereign’s Throne, honoring royal tradition. The Sovereign’s Throne—constructed from carved gilded wood that is embellished with crystals and royal red velvet—was built in 1847. According to the NYT , the Sovereign’s Throne was inspired by a similar throne constructed in 1308, which sits close by in Westminster Abbey.

Then, Sarah Clarke (widely known as the Usher of the Black Rod) was sent to summon the U.K. House of Commons to listen to the monarch’s speech in the House of Fords. On her approach, the doors were slammed in her face, representing the independence of the U.K. House of Commons from the monarchy. Per The New York Times , Clarke is the first woman to hold the position since being appointed to the role in 2018.

Talk about a true power couple.

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