British Monarchy and Constitutional Duties: King Charles’ Continued Role Amid Cancer Treatment

The British monarchy, an ancient institution steeped in tradition and history, has long been a cornerstone of the United Kingdom’s political landscape. The intricate web of connections between the monarch and the government, Buckingham Palace and Westminster, forms the very foundation of the British state. As we navigate the current situation with King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis and his ongoing treatment, it is essential to understand the constitutional duties that the monarch is expected to fulfill and how these duties will continue amid his health challenges.

When examining the workings of the British monarchy, one cannot overlook the significance of the monarch’s role in the passage of laws at Westminster. After a bill has passed through all its stages in the House of Commons and the House of Lords, it heads to the Palace for what is known as Royal Assent. This formality, while seemingly insignificant in a parliamentary democracy, serves as an illustration of the King’s key constitutional role.

Another example of the King’s duties is the appointment of new ministers. Technically, these appointments are Crown appointments, made by the King. The weekly audiences between the King and the prime minister, a long-standing convention that goes back decades, are also set to continue. These audiences are highly valued by prime ministers and are an essential part of the British political system.

Buckingham Palace has emphasized that the King’s constitutional duties will continue, despite his cancer treatment. However, if the King were unable to fulfill these duties, there are procedures in place to ensure the smooth functioning of the British state. Counsellors of State, who are authorized to carry out most of the official duties of the Sovereign, would step in to attend Privy Council meetings, sign routine documents, and receive the credentials of new ambassadors to the United Kingdom. The Queen, the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Sussex, the Duke of York, and Princess Beatrice are currently the Counsellors of State. A law passed in 2022 also added the Princess Royal and the Earl of Wessex to the list.

An example of when Counsellors of State were required occurred in the early 1950s, when King George VI was diagnosed with lung cancer and underwent an operation at Buckingham Palace to remove one lung. Other members of the family, including his wife, could have fulfilled his constitutional role while he was incapacitated. There is nothing to suggest that such an arrangement will be required in Charles’ case.

As the world watches the situation unfold, politicians and leaders from around the world have sent their best wishes to the King. The prime minister, the Labour leader, other party leaders, and the first ministers of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have all posted their reflections. President Biden and the prime ministers of Canada and Australia have also expressed their support.

Rishi Sunak, the prime minister, has stated that ‘thankfully,’ King Charles III’s cancer has been ‘caught early.’ The King remains wholly positive about his treatment, which began on Monday, according to Buckingham Palace. Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has spoken to his father about the diagnosis and plans to travel to the UK to visit him.

The King’s cancer was found during treatment for an enlarged prostate, but it is not prostate cancer. The early diagnosis highlights the importance of regular health checks and the benefits of catching cancer at an early stage.

In conclusion, the British monarchy and its constitutional duties have proven to be a resilient and adaptable institution. Despite the challenges posed by King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis, the monarchy’s intricate web of connections and the insulation of procedures for when a monarch is incapacitated ensure the smooth functioning of the British state. As the world waits for updates on the King’s health and treatment, it is a reminder of the enduring significance of the British monarchy in the political landscape of the United Kingdom.