Charles III describes Parliament as a “living instrument of democracy” to MPs and Lords

King Charles III of England addressed the members of the House of Commons and the House of Lords for the first time this Monday, in a symbolic speech where he defended the importance of Parliament, “the living instrument of democracy” in the United Kingdom.

In the presence of MPs and Lords and his wife, Queen Consort Camilla, and in the emblematic Westminster Hall – where this week will be installed the mortuary chapel in tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II – the new monarch thanked the expressions of condolences received in recent days for the death of his mother.

Charles III has reiterated the recognition of the “dedication” and “service” of Elizabeth II during her 70 years of reign and has defended the weight of traditions, thanks to which “connections” with past history are also established.

The king has said to feel in Westminster “the weight of history” and has promised that he will try, with the “example” of his mother and the “help” of Parliament, to reign with the same “dedication” and “fidelity” to the country as Elizabeth II, whose remains still rest in Edinburgh awaiting transfer to London.

After this speech, Charles III has set off for the Scottish capital, where he will participate in the funeral procession that will accompany the coffin of his mother from Hollyrood Palace to St. Giles Cathedral.

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