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Here is the transcript of King Charles III’s inaugural address.

King Charles III honored his mother in his first speech to the nation as sovereign.

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• Published Sept. 9, 2022 Updated Sept. 19, 2022

King Charles III delivered his first address as sovereign Friday, after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. The following is a transcript of his remarks, as released by the palace.

I speak to you today with feelings of profound sorrow.

Throughout her life, Her Majesty The Queen — my beloved Mother — was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family, and we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example.

Queen Elizabeth’s was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today. Alongside the personal grief that all my family are feeling, we also share with so many of you in the United Kingdom, in all the countries where the queen was head of state, in the Commonwealth and across the world, a deep sense of gratitude for the more than seventy years in which my mother, as queen, served the people of so many nations.

In 1947, on her 21st birthday, she pledged in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her peoples. That was more than a promise: it was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life.

She made sacrifices for duty. Her dedication and devotion as Sovereign never wavered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss. In her life of service we saw that abiding love of tradition, together with that fearless embrace of progress, which make us great as Nations. The affection, admiration and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign. And, as every member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with warmth, humor and an unerring ability always to see the best in people.

I pay tribute to my Mother’s memory and I honor her life of service. I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of you, and I share that sense of loss, beyond measure, with you all.

When the queen came to the throne, Britain and the world were still coping with the privations and aftermath of the Second World War, and still living by the conventions of earlier times. In the course of the last seventy years we have seen our society become one of many cultures and many faiths. The institutions of the State have changed in turn. But, through all changes and challenges, our nation and the wider family of Realms — of whose talents, traditions and achievements I am so inexpressibly proud — have prospered and flourished. Our values have remained, and must remain, constant.

The role and the duties of Monarchy also remain, as does the Sovereign’s particular relationship and responsibility toward the Church of England — the Church in which my own faith is so deeply rooted. In that faith, and the values it inspires, I have been brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others, and to hold in the greatest respect the precious traditions, freedoms and responsibilities of our unique history and our system of parliamentary government.

As the queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the Constitutional principles at the heart of our nation. And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the Realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavor to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.

My life will, of course, change as I take up my new responsibilities. It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.

This is also a time of change for my family. I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla. In recognition of her own loyal public service since our marriage seventeen years ago, she becomes my queen consort. I know she will bring to the demands of her new role the steadfast devotion to duty on which I have come to rely so much.

As my Heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me. He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades. Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty. With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the center ground where vital help can be given.

I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas. In a little over a week’s time we will come together as a nation, as a Commonwealth and indeed a global community, to lay my beloved mother to rest. In our sorrow, let us remember and draw strength from the light of her example.

On behalf of all my family, I can only offer the most sincere and heartfelt thanks for your condolences and support. They mean more to me than I can ever possibly express.

And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: Thank you. Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years.

May “flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest.”

King Charles makes first national address following queen's death: Read the full transcript

King Charles III  followed in the steps of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who died Thursday , by pledging the remainder of his life to the Commonwealth, much like she did at age 21.

The new king , 73, made his first official address as sovereign in a pre-recorded message broadcast Friday at 1 p.m. ET, 6 p.m. local time, expressing grief, paying his respects to Queen Elizabeth, detailing changes to come and promising to serve.

The new king arrived at Buckingham Palace Friday afternoon and pre-recorded his speech in the Palace's Blue Drawing Room. 

The address comes at a time in which many Britons are preoccupied with an energy crisis, the soaring cost of living, the war in Ukraine and the fallout from Brexit.

King Charles will be proclaimed by the Ascension council Saturday and will make his public oath to the church and to "facilitate continuity of government."

Read King Charles III's first formal address as sovereign in full below:

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King Charles III's message

"I speak to you today with feelings of profound sorrow. Throughout her life, Her Majesty The Queen – my beloved mother – was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family, and we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example. Queen Elizabeth’s was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.

Alongside the personal grief that all my family are feeling, we also share with so many of you in the United Kingdom, in all the countries where the queen was head of state, in the Commonwealth and across the world, a deep sense of gratitude for the more than seventy years in which my mother, as queen, served the people of so many nations. In 1947, on her 21s birthday, she pledged in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her peoples. That was more than a promise: It was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life. She made sacrifices for duty. Her dedication and devotion as Sovereign never wavered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss. In her life of service we saw that abiding love of tradition, together with that fearless embrace of progress, which make us great as nations. The affection, admiration and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign. And, as to every member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with warmth, humor and an unerring ability always to see the best in people. I pay tribute to my Mother’s memory and I honor her life of service. I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of you and I share that sense of loss, beyond measure, with you all.

When the queen came to the throne, Britain and the world were still coping with the privations and aftermath of the Second World War, and still living by the conventions of earlier times. In the course of the last seventy years we have seen our society become one of many cultures and many faiths. The institutions of the state have changed in turn. But, through all changes and challenges, our nation and the wider family of realms – of whose talents, traditions and achievements I am so inexpressibly proud – have prospered and flourished. Our values have remained, and must remain, constant.

The role and the duties of monarchy also remain, as does the sovereign’s particular relationship and responsibility towards the Church of England – the church in which my own faith is so deeply rooted. In that faith, and the values it inspires, I have been brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others, and to hold in the greatest respect the precious traditions, freedoms and responsibilities of our unique history and our system of parliamentary government. As the queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the Constitutional principles at the heart of our nation. And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the Realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavor to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.

My life will of course change as I take up my new responsibilities. It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.

This is also a time of change for my family. I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla. In recognition of her own loyal public service since our marriage seventeen years ago, she becomes my Queen Consort. I know she will bring to the demands of her new role the steadfast devotion to duty on which I have come to rely so much. As my Heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me. He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades. Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru (Prince of Wales, in Welsh) , the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty. With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given. I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas.

In a little over a week’s time we will come together as a nation, as a Commonwealth and indeed a global community, to lay my beloved mother to rest. In our sorrow, let us remember and draw strength from the light of her example. On behalf of all my family, I can only offer the most sincere and heartfelt thanks for your condolences and support. They mean more to me than I can ever possibly express. And to my darling mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late papa, I want simply to say this: thank you. Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years. May 'flights of angels sing thee to thy rest'."

Key moments and major events: The life and 70-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II

Contributing: USA TODAY staff reports; The Associated Press

'My life will, of course, change': King Charles III pledges lifelong service in first public address

Watch the video or read the transcript of King Charles III's first speech to the nation since the death of Queen Elizabeth II

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King Charles III flew to London from Scotland on his first full day of duties, and delivered his first speech to the nation Friday evening (1 p.m. ET) after meeting Prime Minister Liz Truss, who was appointed just days earlier by Queen Elizabeth II. 

'My life will, of course, change': King Charles III pledges lifelong service in first public address Back to video

The King was driven to the royal residence in an official Bentley limousine on Friday and a large crowd cheered as the car arrived at the palace gates. He got out of the car to greet well-wishers and look at some of the huge pile of floral tributes left to honour his mother Queen Elizabeth.

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Under intense scrutiny and pressure to show he can be both caring and regal, Charles walked slowly past flowers heaped at the palace gates for his mother. The mood was both grieving and celebratory. Some called “Thank you Charles” and “Well done, Charlie!” as he shook hands with the crowd. Several shouted “God save the King!” A few broke into a rendition of Britain’s national anthem, which is now titled “God Save the King.”

The King spent much of his 73 years preparing for the role but he takes the throne at a time when many Britons are preoccupied with an energy crisis, the soaring cost of living, the war in Ukraine and the fallout from Brexit. In his first speech as King, Charles offered a promise of lifelong service. Watch the full speech in the video above, or read the transcript, below.

I speak to you today with feelings of profound sorrow.

Throughout her life, Her Majesty the Queen, my beloved mother, was an inspiration. An example to me and to all my family. And we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother, for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example.

Get a dash of perspective along with the trending news of the day in a very readable format.

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Queen Elizabeth’s was a life well-lived. A promise with destiny, kept. And she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service, I renew to you all today.

Alongside the personal grief, that all my family are feeling, we also share with so many of you, in the United Kingdom, in all the countries where the Queen was the head of state, in the Commonwealth, and across the world, a deep sense of gratitude for the more than 70 years in which my mother, as Queen, served the people of so many nations. In 1947, on her 21st birthday, she pledged, in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth, to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her peoples. That was more than a promise. It was a profound personal commitment, which defined her whole life.

She made sacrifices for duty. Her dedication and devotion as sovereign never wavered through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss.

In her life of service, we saw that abiding love of tradition, together with that fearless embrace of progress, which makes us great as nations. The affection, admiration and respect she inspired, became the hallmark of her reign. And as every member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with warmth, humour, and an unerring ability always to see the best in people.

I pay tribute to my mother’s memory, and I honour her life of service. I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of you. And I share that sense of loss beyond measure with you all.

When the Queen came to the throne, Britain and the world was still coping with the privations and aftermath of the Second World War. And still living by the conventions of earlier times. In the course of the last 70 years, we have seen our society become one of many cultures and many faiths. The institutions of the state have changed in turn, but through all the changes and challenges, our nation and a wider family of realms, of whose talents, traditions and achievements I’m so inexpressibly proud, have prospered and flourished. Our values have remained and must remain constant.

The role and the duties of monarchy also remain, as does the sovereign’s particular relationship and responsibility towards the Church of England, the church in which my own faith is so deeply rooted. In that faith, and the values it inspires, I have been brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others and to hold in the greatest respect, the precious traditions, freedoms and responsibilities of our unique history and our system of parliamentary government.

As the Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I, too, now solemnly pledge myself throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation. And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.

My life will, of course, change as I take up my new responsibilities. It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.

This is also a time of change for my family. I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla. In recognition of her own loyal public service since I married her 17 years ago, she becomes my Queen Consort. I know she will bring to the demands of her new role, the steadfast devotion to duty, on which I have come to rely so much.

As my heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me. He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall, and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall, which I have undertaken for more than five decades.

Today I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I’ve been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty. With Katherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centreground, where vital help can be given.

I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas.

In a little over a week’s time, we will come together as a nation, as a commonwealth and indeed a global community to lay my beloved mother to rest. In our sorrow, let us remember and draw strength from the light of her example. On behalf of all my family, I can only offer the most sincere and heartfelt thanks for your condolences and support. They mean more to me than I can ever possibly express.

And, to my darling mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late papa, I want simply to say this: thank you. Thank you for your love and devotion to our family. And to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.

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King Charles III: Read the King’s inaugural address following the death of the Queen in full

• Friday 9 September 2022 at 6:58pm

King Charles III has delivered his first address to the nation following the death of his mother, the Queen.

The King, who will be sworn in as sovereign on Saturday morning, paid a touching tribute to his "darling mama" in a pre-recorded speech.

King Charles said of his “beloved mother” the late Elizabeth II: “We owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example”.

During the speech, he confirmed that he has created his eldest son and heir, William, the Prince of Wales - the King's former title. His wife Kate will become the Princess of Wales - a title formerly held by William's late mother Princess Diana.

He also added he wished to “express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas”.

Here is the King’s address to the nation in full:

“I speak to you today with feelings of profound sorrow. Throughout her life, Her Majesty The Queen – my beloved Mother – was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family, and we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example.

“Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.

“Alongside the personal grief that all my family are feeling, we also share with so many of you in the United Kingdom, in all the countries where The Queen was Head of State, in the Commonwealth and across the world, a deep sense of gratitude for the more than 70 years in which my Mother, as Queen, served the people of so many nations."

The remarkable life of the Queen remembered in our latest episode of What You Need To Know

He added: “In 1947, on her 21st birthday, she pledged in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her peoples.

“That was more than a promise: it was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life. She made sacrifices for duty.

“Her dedication and devotion as Sovereign never waivered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss."

“In her life of service we saw that abiding love of tradition, together with that fearless embrace of progress, which make us great as Nations. The affection, admiration and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign.

“And, as every member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with warmth, humour and an unerring ability always to see the best in people.

“I pay tribute to my Mother’s memory and I honour her life of service. I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of you and I share that sense of loss, beyond measure, with you all."

He added: “When The Queen came to the throne, Britain and the world were still coping with the privations and aftermath of the Second World War, and still living by the conventions of earlier times.

“In the course of the last 70 years we have seen our society become one of many cultures and many faiths.

“The institutions of the State have changed in turn. But, through all changes and challenges, our nation and the wider family of Realms – of whose talents, traditions and achievements I am so inexpressibly proud – have prospered and flourished. Our values have remained, and must remain, constant.

“The role and the duties of Monarchy also remain, as does the Sovereign’s particular relationship and responsibility towards the Church of England – the Church in which my own faith is so deeply rooted."

He added: “In that faith, and the values it inspires, I have been brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others, and to hold in the greatest respect the precious traditions, freedoms and responsibilities of our unique history and our system of parliamentary government.

“As The Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the Constitutional principles at the heart of our nation.

“And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the Realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.

“My life will of course change as I take up my new responsibilities."

“It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.

“This is also a time of change for my family. I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla.

“In recognition of her own loyal public service since our marriage 17 years ago, she becomes my Queen Consort.

“I know she will bring to the demands of her new role the steadfast devotion to duty on which I have come to rely so much.

“As my Heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me.

“He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades.

“Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty.

“With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given.

“I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas."

“In a little over a week’s time we will come together as a nation, as a Commonwealth and indeed a global community, to lay my beloved mother to rest.

“In our sorrow, let us remember and draw strength from the light of her example.

“On behalf of all my family, I can only offer the most sincere and heartfelt thanks for your condolences and support.

“They mean more to me than I can ever possibly express.

“And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: thank you.

“Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years.

“May ‘flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest’.”

Watch in full: Charles' first King's Speech as monarch

Charles III has delivered his first King's Speech as monarch to parliament, marking the start of the parliamentary year.

Tuesday 7 November 2023 15:16, UK

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Charles III’s first speech: what the King said and why it was important

The King’s first speech to the nation was telling of his hopes for his reign and how the royal family will operate

• Accession of King Charles and death of Queen Elizabeth – latest updates

King Charles III’s first speech to the nation as sovereign contained telling passages showing how he hopes the public, in the UK and abroad, will see his forthcoming reign and how he wants the royal family to operate.

The King said: “Queen Elizabeth’s was a life well-lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.”

On one level this was a simple reminder of the continuity the King intends to project with his mother who was widely admired for her focus on service rather than rule. He, like the Queen, does not countenance abdication at any time. Tellingly he referenced her pledge to the people of all Commonwealth countries in 1947 that “my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service”. One of the King’s key priorities will be keeping the Commonwealth together.

“As the Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation.”

The key phrase here is “the remaining time”. Charles, 73, knows he cannot hope for a historic reign as long as his mother who became Queen aged 25. It was a nod to that reality which he further developed later in the speech when he talked extensively about the important role of William and Catherine.

“In the course of the last 70 years we have seen our society become one of many cultures and many faiths. The institutions of the state have changed in turn.” And he said: “ Whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect and love .”

These two sentences projected a clear recognition of a new era, in which he will reign over an ever more ethnically and religiously diverse nation. Charles has for decades shown a huge interest in faiths such as Islam and their related cultures and appears keen to present himself as a guardian of religious and cultural diversity as well as the established Church of England, of which he is a part.

“My life will of course change as I take up my new responsibilities. It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.”

Here he alludes to setting aside the causes – such as climate change, classical architecture, alternative medicine, youth work and interfaith dialogue – that have sometimes caused public controversy. But he does so in the knowledge that Prince William , whom he anointed the Prince of Wales, has already taken up the cudgels on the issue that concerns him most: climate change. He also hinted he wants them to take on a brief perhaps relating to inequality when he said the new Prince and Princess of Wales would “bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given”. A feint gesture of recognition of the cost of living crisis, perhaps.

“I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas.”

Here was an olive branch to his youngest son and daughter-in-law whose departure from royal life has been marked by continuing acrimony, including claims by Meghan that someone in the royal household raised questions about the skin colour of their baby before it was born. It was one of several expressions of open emotion during the speech in which the King also said: “I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla” and finished with an emotional sign off to his “darling Mama” when he wished: “May ‘flights of angels sing thee to thy rest’,” a quote from the ending of Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

• King Charles III
• Queen Elizabeth II
• Catherine, Princess of Wales
• Prince William
• Prince Harry
• Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex

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The King's speech in full: Charles III's first address to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth

King Charles III has made his first public address to Britain and the Commonwealth since the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. 

Here is the new King's address to the nation, in full: 

"I speak to you today with feelings of profound sorrow. Throughout her life, Her Majesty the Queen – my beloved mother – was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family, and we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example.

"Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.

"Alongside the personal grief that all my family are feeling, we also share with so many of you in the United Kingdom, in all the countries where The Queen was head of state, in the Commonwealth and across the world, a deep sense of gratitude for the more than 70 years in which my Mother, as Queen, served the people of so many nations.

"In 1947, on her 21st birthday, she pledged in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her peoples.

"That was more than a promise: it was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life. She made sacrifices for duty.

"Her dedication and devotion as sovereign never wavered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss.

"In her life of service we saw that abiding love of tradition, together with that fearless embrace of progress, which make us great as nations. The affection, admiration and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign.

"And, as every member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with warmth, humour and an unerring ability always to see the best in people.

"I pay tribute to my mother's memory and I honour her life of service. I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of you and I share that sense of loss, beyond measure, with you all.

"When the Queen came to the throne, Britain and the world were still coping with the privations and aftermath of the Second World War, and still living by the conventions of earlier times.

"In the course of the last 70 years we have seen our society become one of many cultures and many faiths.

"The institutions of the state have changed in turn. But, through all changes and challenges, our nation and the wider family of realms – of whose talents, traditions and achievements I am so inexpressibly proud – have prospered and flourished. Our values have remained, and must remain, constant.

"The role and the duties of monarchy also remain, as does the sovereign's particular relationship and responsibility towards the Church of England – the church in which my own faith is so deeply rooted.

"In that faith, and the values it inspires, I have been brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others, and to hold in the greatest respect the precious traditions, freedoms and responsibilities of our unique history and our system of parliamentary government.

"As the Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation.

"And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.

"My life will of course change as I take up my new responsibilities.

"It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.

"This is also a time of change for my family. I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla.

"In recognition of her own loyal public service since our marriage 17 years ago, she becomes my Queen Consort.

"I know she will bring to the demands of her new role the steadfast devotion to duty on which I have come to rely so much.

"As my heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me.

"He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades.

"Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty.

"With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given.

"I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas.

"In a little over a week's time we will come together as a nation, as a Commonwealth and indeed a global community, to lay my beloved mother to rest.

"In our sorrow, let us remember and draw strength from the light of her example.

"On behalf of all my family, I can only offer the most sincere and heartfelt thanks for your condolences and support.

"They mean more to me than I can ever possibly express.

"And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: thank you.

"Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years.

"May 'flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest'."

• X (formerly Twitter)

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Watch: Charles delivers King’s Speech from Buckingham Palace

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Watch as King Charles III delivers the annual King’s Speech on Monday, 25 December.

His Majesty delivered the second Christmas message of his reign from a Buckingham Palace room decorated with a living Christmas tree.

The King, like Queen Elizabeth II , writes his Christmas broadcasts.

He followed his mother’s well-established template last year, with a personal reflection on the year focusing on current issues with a Christian framework.

The living tree seen in today’s broadcast will be replanted in a nod to the King’s environmental interests.

It comes after he delivered a speech at the recent Cop28 UN Climate Change summit.

Charles’s message was delivered in the palace room that leads on to the royal residence’s iconic balcony, where members of the royal family have made historic appearances such as after Charles’s coronation or Trooping the Colour celebrations.

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• International
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His Majesty The King's speech at the German Bundestag

His Majesty King Charles III spoke to German parliamentarians during his 2023 state visit to Germany, the first state visit abroad for the King and Queen Consort.

Delivered in German:

Mr President, President of the Bundestag, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great honour to be here today. It means a great deal to both my wife and myself that we have been invited to Germany on my first overseas tour as Sovereign, and it is a particular honour to be here with you where I wish to renew the pledge of friendship between our nations. There could be few better places to do so than in this building which, in its very stones, tells the history of the twentieth century. It is, in itself, a demonstration of what binds our two countries. Burnt in 1933, severely damaged in 1945, in the 1990s it was rebuilt by a British architect to be the Parliament of a re-united democratic Germany; its iconic glass dome a symbol of the transparency and accountability of parliament, from which the citizens, looking down, can literally oversee their politicians at work. Democracy in action!

My wife and I last had the honour of joining you in this chamber in November 2020, on the occasion of Volkstrauertag. Seventy-five years after the Second World War, it was of great importance to me to stand with Germans in honouring all victims of war and tyranny, and to be the first members of my family to participate in those deeply moving commemorations.

That you invited us to join you on that occasion showed how far the United Kingdom and Germany had travelled together in friendship and in peace – just as was demonstrated so powerfully 2 years before, by your presence in London, Mr President, for the centenary of the end of the First World War.

Delivered in English:

Today, it gives me particular pride to be with you once again, now as King, and to renew the special bond of friendship between our countries.

This friendship meant so much to my beloved Mother, The late Queen, who often spoke of the 15 official visits she made to Germany, including her 5 state visits.

The first of those, in 1965, came when our continent was still deeply scarred by war, and the trauma of conflict. Hers was the wartime generation, and like my father, The Queen had served in uniform. That my parents’ 11-day tour of Germany should prove to be a pivotal moment in the reconciliation between our nations was, therefore, a matter of great personal significance to them both.

My Mother understood the immense achievement that reconciliation represented, and in returning to Germany time and again, she was determined to play her own part. It is, perhaps, for this reason that Her late Majesty won a particular place in the affection of the German people.

My family and I were so deeply touched by the reaction in Germany to my Mother’s death. The tributes offered in this chamber, the Union Flag projected onto the Brandenburg Gate, and the thousands of messages in condolence books across the country, offered a tremendous comfort in our time of grief. On behalf of my entire family, I can only offer our heartfelt thanks for the extraordinary kindness that the people of Germany showed to us.

Mr President, President of the Bundestag, since I last spoke in this building the scourge of war is back in Europe. The unprovoked invasion of Ukraine has inflicted the most unimaginable suffering on so many innocent people. Countless lives have been destroyed; freedom and human dignity have been trampled in the most brutal way. The security of Europe has been threatened, together with our democratic values.

The world has watched in horror – but we have not stood by. Even as we abhor the appalling scenes of destruction, we can take heart from our unity – in defence of Ukraine, of peace and freedom.

Germany and the United Kingdom have shown vital leadership. As Europe’s 2 largest donors to Ukraine, we have responded with taking decisions which might previously have seemed unimaginable. Germany’s decision to send such significant military support to Ukraine is remarkably courageous, important and appreciated.

Today, our pilots are flying side-by-side on joint operations over our Baltic allies. Here, in Germany, our armies have established a joint Amphibious Engineer Battalion, which I will visit later today. Germany is the only nation in the world with which the United Kingdom has such a joint unit, an extraordinary testament to the partnership we enjoy.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I can hardly begin to express the pride I feel in the strength of the partnership between our 2 countries. Germany, her people and distinctive culture have made such a profound impact on me over so many of my previous visits. Since I first came to Germany when I was just 13 years old, I have grown to become familiar with the different corners of this remarkable land.

Like many British people, I have close personal ties here – in my case, cherished family relationships and associations that go back generations. For all of us, however, there are countless points of connection and common experience in the British-German story, which has unfolded over nearly 2 millennia.

Throughout the Middle Ages, the renowned Hanseatic League traded goods from Lübeck and Hamburg to ports up and down the English coast, establishing a trading partnership which underpins our shared prosperity to this day.

Where goods travelled, ideas travelled too. Our people came to be inspired by each other’s example.

We developed a profound admiration of one another’s literature and music, and it is not surprising, therefore, that German was the first language into which Shakespeare was translated. The first Shakespeare Association in the world was established in 1864 – not in England, but in Weimar.

In just a few weeks’ time, the astonishing music of Georg Friedrich Handel – who was born a German, and died British – will once again soar through Westminster Abbey at the Coronation, just as it has at every Coronation since that of my 7 times great grandfather, King George II, in 1727.

Throughout the centuries, people have travelled back and forth between our lands. In the 19th century, many Britons fell in love with Germany whilst on the ‘Grand Tour’. William Turner’s mesmerising paintings of the Rhine sparked in his countrymen the ambition to see those landscapes for themselves – a demand later met by Thomas Cook, the pioneer of tourism, who would organise his first foreign trip along the Rhine, with stops at Cologne, Frankfurt, Heidelberg and Baden-Baden.

Today millions of Britons visit Germany each year, just as millions of Germans travel to our shores. Britons come to admire Berlin’s vibrant culture and nightlife, making up Europe’s largest visitor group to this wonderful city. So we are still admiring of each other’s culture; dependent upon each other’s economies; and inspired by each other’s ideas. More recent generations may think as readily of The Beatles or Kraftwerk, as they do of Brahms or Byron, but the web of cultural connections is as strong as ever.

And perhaps most importantly, for the last 50 years we have laughed together – both at each other, and with each other. And while Miss Sophie’s “The same procedure as every year, James?” does not – I hope – give a very accurate impression of modern Britain, it is, I know, an integral part of a German Happy New Year. In Britain, Germany’s comedy ambassador Henning Wehn has given us an understanding of German quirks, as Monty Python brought our own here. Like all old friends at moments, the warmth of our relationship allows a small smile at each other’s expense.

In some areas there are rivalries, of course, and I think especially of our encounters on the football pitch.

Against this backdrop, it was particularly special last year that the England women’s football team – the Lionesses – could win the Euros against Germany last year. Beyond their sporting success, both teams have promoted gender equality in such an impressive way. In so doing, they inspired a generation – in Britain, Germany and far beyond.

This is just one example of how our countries, together, can offer a compelling example to the world. There are, I am delighted to say, very many more. Faced with so many shared challenges, the United Kingdom and Germany are together providing leadership to secure our shared future.

Today, the United Kingdom and Germany are Europe’s 2 largest producers of power from offshore wind. Many German firms are involved in the production and erection of turbines off the British coast. The North Sea, across which our people have travelled and traded for generations, is soon to be the site of a new interconnector allowing us directly to trade electricity.

Our countries are both accelerating the expansion of our hydrogen economies, the fuel which could transform our future and I am looking forward to seeing Hamburg’s plans to use hydrogen in its efforts to become a fully sustainable port.

These innovations are vital in combatting the existential challenge of climate change and global warming which confronts us all, and as such I was delighted to meet participants of the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue yesterday to hear how countries are accelerating this transition.

For a long time, British and German scientific research has been leading the way. Our countries rank in the top 2 in Europe for founding successful new technology start-ups. Our universities and research institutions collaborate more often with each other than any other two countries in Europe.

This helps to explain why a Berlin-based company has pioneered in London the use of lampposts for electric vehicle charging points, while in Berlin you can book a ride in a fully electric, London-style taxi.

Internationally, too, we are working closely together. We helped initiate the Just Energy Transition Partnership with South Africa at the climate conference in Glasgow. A further such partnership with Indonesia was the result of much work during Germany’s G7 Presidency.

This essential partnership between our 2 countries is built of the expertise, dedication and ingenuity of countless people in both Germany and the United Kingdom. To them all, I can only offer my sincere and heartfelt gratitude.

Tomorrow, we will once again stand with the people of Germany in solemn remembrance. In Hamburg, I will pay my respects at the memorial to the Kindertransporte, which, 85 years ago, saved the lives of more than 10,000 Jewish children from Nazism, and gave them safe passage to new lives in Britain. I will also join you, Mr President, and you, First Mayor Tschentscher, in remembering those who perished in the Allied bombing of Hamburg in 1943.

Heeding the lessons of the past is our sacred responsibility, but it can only be fully discharged through a commitment to our shared future. Together we must be vigilant against threats to our values and freedoms, and resolute in our determination to confront them. Together we must strive for the security, prosperity and wellbeing that our people deserve.

In the long and remarkable story of our 2 countries, there are many chapters yet unwritten. Let us fill these with the restless pursuit of a better tomorrow. The legacy of our past, and the great promise of our future, demand nothing less. Thank you for your attention.

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King Charles III Was Diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer, Given 2 Years To Live?

The rumor spread after buckingham palace announced the british monarch's cancer diagnosis on feb. 5, 2024., nick hardinges, published april 1, 2024.

About this rating

In late March 2024, weeks after Buckingham Palace announced King Charles is suffering from an unspecified form of cancer, celebrity gossip magazine In Touch Weekly published an article allegedly offering specifics on his diagnosis. Citing anonymous sources, the article claimed he has pancreatic cancer and only two years to live.

One source reportedly told In Touch Weekly some people close to the British monarch believe his cancer "is worse than they're making it out to be," while another allegedly told the publication Charles "is not only battling pancreatic cancer... but has a mere two years to live."

Yahoo published a version of the article and numerous other news outlets  covered the rumor. Examples of the claim also spread to X (formerly Twitter), Facebook  and TikTok .

Many readers contacted Snopes asking whether the claim about Charles' specific cancer diagnosis and his purported ominous timeline were true.

We rated this claim "Unproven" because the alleged sources in the In Touch Weekly article were anonymous and, therefore, we were unable to track them down to independently verify their claims. Snopes contacted the publication asking for information on how it reported the story.

Searching the Royal Family's website and Google , there was no evidence of the Palace revealing Charles' specific form of cancer. No reputable news publications substantiated the rumor — which, if true, would be eminently newsworthy.

On Feb. 5, 2024, Buckingham Palace announced  the monarch was diagnosed with cancer; however, the type was not revealed, as reported by the BBC , Reuters  and The Associated Press .

Snopes contacted Buckingham Palace for its comment on the rumor, and we will update this article if, or when, we receive responses.

'A statement from Buckingham Palace'.  Royal.UK , 5 Feb. 2024, https://www.royal.uk/a-statement-from-buckingham-palace-5Feb24.

Holden, Michael, and Muvija M. 'King Charles Diagnosed with Cancer, Will Postpone Duties and Undergo Treatment'. Reuters , 6 Feb. 2024. www.reuters.com , https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/britains-king-charles-diagnosed-with-cancer-buckingham-palace-2024-02-05/.

'King Charles III Is Being Treated for Cancer and Will Temporarily Halt His Public Duties'. AP News , 5 Feb. 2024, https://apnews.com/article/king-charles-iii-cancer-britain-e0408a7c9bb86ad2af8754ce4b37d65e.

Marshall, Louisa. 'King Charles' Funeral Plans Unveiled Amid His Cancer Battle'. In Touch Weekly , 29 Mar. 2024, https://www.intouchweekly.com/posts/king-charles-funeral-plans-unveiled-amid-his-cancer-battle/.

'What Do We Know about King Charles' Cancer Diagnosis?' BBC News , 5 Feb. 2024. www.bbc.co.uk , https://www.bbc.com/news/health-68203457.

By Nick Hardinges

Nick Hardinges is a London-based reporter who previously worked as a fact-checker at Reuters.

Article Tags

Kate Middleton Just Got a New Royal Title From King Charles III

As kate middleton continues her cancer treatment, king charles iii bestowed a new royal title upon her, as well as prince william..

Kate Middleton 's role in the royal family continues to expand. 

In fact, King Charles III honored the Princess of Wales with a new title in an April 23 announcement. 

Kate—who shared her cancer diagnosis in March—has been appointed as "Royal Companion of The Order of the Companions of Honour." Her Royal Highness' epithet is brand new, as no one has held the title before her. However, King George V founded the Order of the Companions in 1917 to recognize achievements in public service, arts, medicine and sciences. 

And while Kate is currently laying low amid her health journey, the title comes as no surprise given her dedication to organizations like Little Princess Trust and her own childhood development initiative, Shaping Us. The 42-year-old has also emphasized that she plans to return to her royal duties as soon as possible.

"My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy," Kate said in a March 22 social media video . "I look forward to being back when I'm able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery."

But Kate isn't the only one who was bestowed a new title.

Queen Camilla received the title "Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire." And Prince William —who shares children Prince George , 10, Prince Charlotte , 8, and Prince Louis , 6 with Kate—received a new title of "Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath," which was previously held by King Charles. 

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The Prince of Wales has continued to proceed with his own royal duties after his wife's health update, as well as stepping up in place for his father (who announced his own cancer diagnosis on Feb. 5 ) on several occasions—and Kate has expressed gratitude for his support. 

"Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance," Kate added in her March 22 video. "I am well, and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal in my mind, body and spirits."

Read on for more updates on Kate's recovery and other royal news from around the world. 

Queen Camilla Attends Royal Maundy Service

The queen consort attended the Royal Maundy Service on March 28 in place of  King Charles III , making her the first spouse of the Monarch to continue the ancient tradition .

Kate Middleton Shares Cancer Diagnosis

In a March 22 video message, the Princess of Wales shared that she'd been diagnosed with cancer after undergoing abdominal surgery in January.

"It was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful," she said before noting that tests after the operation found cancer had been present. "My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment."

Kate Middleton Apologizes for Edited Family Photo Controversy

After photo agencies pulled the picture Kensington Palace shared of Kate since having her abdominal surgery on March 10, the Princess of Wales addressed claims the photo was doctored. 

"Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing," she tweeted on March 11. "I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother's Day. C."

Lady Kitty Spencer Privately Welcomes Baby

Princess Diana 's niece  celebrated Mother's Day in the U.K. by sharing she and her husband Michael Lewis privately welcomed their first baby.

“It’s the joy of my life to be your mummy, little one. I love you unconditionally," she captioned her March 10 Instagram post . "Happy Mother’s Day to those who celebrate today."

Queen Camilla Takes a Break

After keeping up her full slate of engagements in the wake of her husband's cancer diagnosis, the palace cleared Camilla's schedule.

The Times pointed out March 2 that the 76-year-old didn't have any engagements on her calendar until March 11, when she'd be due at Westminster Abbey to observe Commonwealth Day.

Thomas Kensington Dies at 45

The husband of Lady Gabriella Windsor and ex-boyfriend of Pippa Middleton , was found dead Feb. 25. Days later, a coroner's inquest found that he died by suicide.

King Charles Diagnosed With Cancer

While King Charles III was in the hospital for his benign prostate enlargement procedure, the royal family member was diagnosed with cancer .

"His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties," Buckingham Palace said Feb. 5. "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible."

Sarah Ferguson Is Diagnosed With a Second Type of Cancer

The Duchess of York's rep said in a statement on Jan. 21 that Sarah was recently diagnosed with malignant melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer. Several months prior, she underwent a single mastectomy to treat breast cancer.

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark Abdicates the Throne

On Jan. 14, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark made history as she officially abdicated the throne, handing the crown over to her son, now known as King Frederik the 10th . 

Kate Middleton Is Hospitalized

Kensington Palace announced on Jan. 17 that Kate Middleton underwent planned abdominal surgery and was set to remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days.

"Based on the current medical advice," the Palace said, "she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."

Prince William Adjusting His Schedule

Amid Kate's recovery, Prince William postponed a number of engagements as he supported his family, including the couple's three children, Prince George , Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis .

King Charles III Undergoing Treatment

Shortly after Kate's hospitalization was made public, Buckingham Palace shared that Charles "has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate."

"His Majesty's condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure," the statement added. "The King’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation."

Luxembourg Welcomes a New Baby

Princess Claire and Prince Felix of Luxembourg welcomed son Balthazar Felix Karl on Jan. 7, the first royal baby of the New Year!

Billie Eilish Details When She Knew She Wanted Her “Face in a Vagina”

Khloe kardashian has welcomed an adorable new member to the family.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

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King Charles Is Hoping to Resume Public Royal Duties Next Month

By Katie Nicholl

After a lengthy period of absence, King Charles is planning to resume public duties possibly as soon as next month, sources close to him told Vanity Fair .

Following a cancer diagnosis earlier this year, Charles has been undergoing outpatient treatment at a London clinic, forcing him to pause royal engagements. While he has continued to carry out state duties including Privy Council meetings and weekly audiences with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak , he has not carried out public engagements as he recovers between treatments.

Charles’ last public appearance was on Easter Sunday when he attended church services with Queen Camilla and members of the royal family. The monarch, who was photographed with Camilla leaving church in Scotland on Sunday, has appeared in good health. While Buckingham Palace has not confirmed when the king will return to work, sources close to the monarch say he is recovering well from his treatment and is looking forward to taking part in some key forthcoming engagements.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend the Easter Mattins Service at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on March 31, 2024 in Windsor, England, UK

With a busy summer calendar, King Charles plans to attend Trooping the Colour on June 15 as well as Royal Ascot the following week. The key events will mark Charles’ official return to work, however, if he is given the green light by his medical team, he may carry out public engagements before then.

“At the moment HRH is doing very well and responding very well to treatment,” says a royal source. “He is very keen to get back to public-facing duties before June if he can. He is doing well but is frustrated more than anything else that he has had to take time off. He is being a good patient but not always a patient one.”

Adds the source: “What he wants is to be back at work meeting the public and doing what he loves. That is the bread and butter of what the royal family does, and the king is very keen to be back out. He is determined to be at Trooping and at Royal Ascot if not every day then for at least one hopefully two days. He is also looking forward to the palace garden parties.”

King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive at Crathie Kirk, near Balmoral, for a Sunday church service on Sunday, April 21, 2024.

By Brooke Baldwin

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King Charles is currently in Scotland and will return to England next week. Adds the source: “He has been responding very well to treatment and is very positive about his health. It is wonderful to see him so optimistic.”

While he has lost weight during his treatment, the king has been well enough to carry out desk work and correspondence throughout. Last month, he met Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt ahead of the Spring Budget announcement and he continues to read his daily red boxes of official paperwork. However, when he resumes public engagements, adjustments will be made to his schedule. Charles will have to take on fewer engagements and has been advised to opt for outdoor events where possible so he is not in close contact with members of the public.

King Charles III meets with Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt in the private audience room at Buckingham Palace on March 5, 2024 in London, England.

Buckingham Palace has said that planning for future engagements continues and is subject to doctors’ advice. According to one aide, decisions about future engagements will be made “nearer the time and making allowance for adaptations as necessary, or not.”

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Watch CBS News

King Charles urged to acknowledge Britain's "legacy of genocide and colonization" on coronation day

By Haley Ott

May 4, 2023 / 9:27 AM EDT / CBS News

London —  Ahead of the coronation of King Charles III , indigenous and other advocacy groups from 12 British Commonwealth countries have called on the new British monarch to, on the date of his coronation , "acknowledge the horrific impacts on and legacy of genocide and colonization of the indigenous and enslaved peoples." 

King Charles remains the official head of state for members of the British Commonwealth, a group of countries that were part of Britain's former colonial empire.

In a letter dated May 4, representatives from organizations from Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, the Bahamas, Belize, Canada, Grenada, Jamaica, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines call on King Charles to "immediately commit to starting discussions about reparations," repatriating remains and returning cultural artifacts.

• Protesters greet William and Kate in Jamaica

"We stand united in engaging a process to right the wrongs of the past and to continue the process of decolonisation," the letter says. "We are united in our struggle to create a world free of the vestiges of racism and oppression that still pervade today and are a direct legacy of the dehumanisation of our First Peoples and enslaved peoples that has occurred throughout the colonial era."

Nova Peris, a former Australian senator and the co-chair of the Australian Republican Movement who signed the letter, said in a statement that the group was looking to "King Charles for an apology, reparation, and repatriation of our artefacts and our remains and to acknowledge the horrific and enduring impacts of the legacy of genocide and colonization of the indigenous and enslaved peoples." 

She shared a petition with the group's demands and asked that people sign it in solidarity ahead of the coronation.

Conversations around the legacy of slavery, colonialism and empire in the United Kingdom have increased in recent years, and were reinvigorated after the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September.

Descendants of some of Britain's wealthiest slave owners have recently called on the U.K. government to publicly apologize and atone for the country's historical links to slavery, including a second cousin of King Charles , the Earl of Harewood.

"We're accountable for that legacy today," Harewood told CBS News last month.

But while Buckingham Palace said in April that it was cooperating with an independent investigation into the monarchy's connections to slavery, no members of the royal household has formally apologized for it, opting instead to express sadness.

At a meeting of Commonwealth heads of state in June last year, King Charles said, "while we strive together for peace, prosperity and democracy, I want to acknowledge that the roots of our contemporary association run deep into the most painful period of our history. I cannot describe the depths of my personal sorrow at the suffering of so many as I continue to deepen my own understanding of slavery's enduring impact."

In March of 2022, Prince William and Kate, the Princess of Wales, were met by protesters during a visit to Jamaica who demanded an apology for the monarchy's role in slavery, along with reparations from the United Kingdom.

"The appalling atrocity of slavery forever stains our history," William said during the visit. "I want to express my profound sorrow."

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Haley Ott is the CBS News Digital international reporter, based in the CBS News London bureau.

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King Charles III and Queen Camilla Spotted in Car Together in the Midst of Cancer Treatment

King Charles III and Queen Camilla were photographed leaving their London residence in a car amid his cancer treatment.

Camilla, 76, smiled at spectators from the front passenger seat while Charles, 75, waved in the back on Wednesday, April 17.

The royal couple were back in London after celebrating their 19th wedding anniversary in Scotland.

Earlier this month, the king and his wife traveled to their Balmoral on the banks of the River Muick.

The couple’s anniversary retreat served as a much-needed break from recent turmoil within the royal family. In February, Buckingham Palace disclosed that Charles had been diagnosed with cancer following a procedure for an enlarged prostate. The palace stated in a release that Charles would be reducing his public commitments as he undergoes treatment.

Related: King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s Relationship Timeline

“I would like to express my most heartfelt thanks for the many messages of support and good wishes I have received in recent days,” the king said in a statement released by Buckingham Palace later that month. “As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.”

During his health struggle, Charles has limited his workload mainly to private audiences at the palace. His Majesty made a public appearance at the royals’ Easter Mattins service in Windsor last month.

While Charles prioritizes his health, other members of the royal family have taken on more responsibilities. Earlier this month, Charles enlisted the help of his younger brother Prince Edward and his wife, Duchess Sophie , for a Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

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Edward, 60, received a new title as a member of the esteemed Order of the Thistle while assuming greater responsibilities as a senior working royal. In addition to Charles, his daughter-in-law Princess Kate Middleton temporarily withdrew from public duties following her own announcement of a cancer diagnosis in March.

Related: Biggest Royal Family Scandals Through the Years

As the two prominent royals take a step back from public engagements, Prince William has pulled more weight than usual. He’s been covering for Kate, 42, and Charles during official events while also managing the household affairs of Prince George, 10, along with his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5, as their mother undergoes preventive chemotherapy .

“It’s been stressful,” a source exclusively told Us Weekly earlier this week. “William feels a profound sense of duty to uphold the monarchy’s stability and inspire confidence in the public that everything will be OK. It’s an immense responsibility.”

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King Charles III's First Speech as Monarch

Queen Elizabeth's "promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today," the British king said in a somber address.

On the one-year anniversary of Queen Elizabeth's death, we're taking a look back at King Charles's first speech as monarch.

King Charles III has officially delivered his first speech as British monarch. In an address recorded in the Blue Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace earlier this afternoon, Charles spoke of his beloved mother, who he said always saw the best in people, and promised his lifelong service.

"I shall endeavor to serve you with loyalty, respect, and love," he said.

Here, read King Charles III's first speech in full:

I speak to you today with feelings of profound sorrow. Throughout her life, Her Majesty The Queen – my beloved Mother – was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family, and we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example. Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.

Alongside the personal grief that all my family are feeling, we also share with so many of you in the United Kingdom, in all the countries where The Queen was Head of State, in the Commonwealth and across the world, a deep sense of gratitude for the more than seventy years in which my Mother, as Queen, served the people of so many nations.

In 1947, on her twenty-first birthday, she pledged in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her peoples. That was more than a promise: it was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life. She made sacrifices for duty. Her dedication and devotion as Sovereign never wavered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss. In her life of service we saw that abiding love of tradition, together with that fearless embrace of progress, which make us great as Nations. The affection, admiration and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign. And, as every member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with warmth, humour and an unerring ability always to see the best in people.

I pay tribute to my Mother’s memory and I honour her life of service. I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of you and I share that sense of loss, beyond measure, with you all. When The Queen came to the throne, Britain and the world were still coping with the privations and aftermath of the Second World War, and still living by the conventions of earlier times. In the course of the last seventy years we have seen our society become one of many cultures and many faiths. The institutions of the State have changed in turn. But, through all changes and challenges, our nation and the wider family of Realms – of whose talents, traditions and achievements I am so inexpressibly proud – have prospered and flourished. Our values have remained, and must remain, constant.

The role and the duties of Monarchy also remain, as does the Sovereign’s particular relationship and responsibility towards the Church of England – the Church in which my own faith is so deeply rooted. In that faith, and the values it inspires, I have been brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others, and to hold in the greatest respect the precious traditions, freedoms and responsibilities of our unique history and our system of parliamentary government. As The Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the Constitutional principles at the heart of our nation. And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the Realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.

My life will of course change as I take up my new responsibilities. It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others. This is also a time of change for my family. I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla. In recognition of her own loyal public service since our marriage seventeen years ago, she becomes my Queen Consort. I know she will bring to the demands of her new role the steadfast devotion to duty on which I have come to rely so much.

As my Heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me. He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades. Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty. With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given. I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas.

In a little over a week’s time we will come together as a nation, as a Commonwealth and indeed a global community, to lay my beloved mother to rest. In our sorrow, let us remember and draw strength from the light of her example. On behalf of all my family, I can only offer the most sincere and heartfelt thanks for your condolences and support. They mean more to me than I can ever possibly express.

And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: thank you. Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years. May “flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest”..

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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King Charles Attends Church on What Would Have Been Queen Elizabeth’s 98th Birthday

The King and his wife, Queen Camilla, were seen leaving church in Scotland on April 21

Paul Campbell/PA Images via Getty

King Charles and Queen Camilla  are spending time in Scotland on what would have been Queen Elizabeth 98th birthday.

On April 21, the royal couple were photographed leaving a church service at Crathie Kirk, near Balmoral Castle in Scotland. King Charles, 75, drove himself and his wife, 76, as they waved and smiled at onlookers while departing.

This year marks the late Queen's second posthumous birthday following her death in September 2022 at age 96. And following their attendance at church, the royal couple will likely spend the day celebrating her in private .

Grant Harrold, who from from 2004 to 2011 served on the couple's staff, said there will be reflections, tributes and toasts in honor of the late Queen, but added that the family "won't publicly do anything."

"Privately, I have no doubt they'll raise a toast to her in the evening. I'm sure the day will very much be spent reflecting on the late Queen," Harrold told Slingo

"I can almost guarantee that if you were to go to Windsor Castle that day, it's very likely there'll be some flowers on the tomb that have been sent by the family members," he added. "Sometimes on royal anniversaries, flowers are sent to royal graves. It's very possible there will be flowers on the tombstone."

For the royal couple, the church outing on the late monarch's birthday was one of a string of more public appearances the King has made since he announced his cancer diagnosis in February.

The announcement came weeks after King Charles underwent a procedure to treat an enlarged prostate in January, during which “a separate issue of concern was noted,” the palace said in a statement. (They clarified that the monarch did not have prostate cancer and noted that the type of cancer the King has will not be disclosed to the public)

He then began "a schedule of regular treatments" and postponed most public-facing duties, following medical advice.

He made his first public appearance following the diagnosis at Easter when he attended a church service at St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle with Queen Camilla and other royal family members.

Following the service, the King did a surprise walkabout, shaking hands and greeting members of the public who were gathered outside.

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On April 18, King Charles and Queen Camilla were seen out in London again as they left Clarence House, their royal residence, and were once again waving and smiling at onlookers as they drove away.

Queen Camilla herself recently to a break from public duties for the Easter holiday and for a celebration of her 19th wedding anniversary with the King on April 9.

She resumed her royal duties on April 16 as she welcomed a group of young representatives from Changemakers, a youth group offshoot of SafeLives, a national charity that fights to end domestic abuse, to Buckingham Palace.

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