The Monarchy

Define a constitutional monarch

A figurehead of a constitutional monarchy, with mainly symbolic powers who “reigns but does not rule”; they are head of state while surrendering the prerogative to govern or make major constitutional decisions to Parliament.

What titles does the sovereign hold?

• Head of the Executive (the Government)

• Head of the Legislature (Parliament)

• Head of the Judiciary

• Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces: can declare war

• Supreme Governor of the established Church of England

What are some of the powers held by the monarch?

• appoints PM after election- leader of majority

• appoints ministers- following advice from PM

• Opens Parliament- King’s Speech

• Grant Royal Assent to bills- to enter them officially into law

• Declare war- after Commons vote, or decided by government

How is the monarchy funded?

Monarchy funded form 3 sources:

• the sovereign grant: principle source, a single grant from the Treasury based on a 12% income from the net Crown Estates to fund the monarch’s official duties

• the Privy Purse: a portfolio of land and property used to fund the rest of the royal family, income generated by the Duchy of Lancaster, administrated by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster

• personal income: income earned by members of the Royal Family; shareholdings and other investments

Describe succession

primogeniture: the right to throne passed from father to his eldest son

Was abandoned in the Succession to the Crown Act 2013, and was effective from the succession of Prince William