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The Labour Party has secured victory in Britain’s general election, marking the first change in power in 14 years. However, Labour leader Keir Starmer will officially become prime minister following a ceremonial process on Friday, when King Charles III will formally request him to form a new government.
This tradition underscores the United Kingdom's system where royal authority still technically underpins the right to govern, even though real political power lies with the elected Parliament.
The transition process is swift and somewhat harsh for the outgoing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Here’s a detailed look at how the ceremonial events will unfold:
A Historic Transition
Though the UK is a constitutional monarchy with the king’s powers limited by law and tradition, the transfer of power has echoes of the past when the monarch had supreme authority. Today, the prime minister is the leader of the majority party in the House of Commons but must still be appointed by the monarch, explains Anna Whitelock, a professor of history of the monarchy at London’s City University.
Ceremony at Buckingham Palace
Outgoing Prime Minister Sunak will first visit Buckingham Palace to offer his resignation to the king. Following this, Starmer will have his first audience with Charles. During this brief interlude, power technically resides with the monarch, creating a brief vacuum in parliamentary democracy, notes Whitelock.
In the “Kissing of Hands” ceremony, which no longer involves actual kissing, the king will ask Starmer to form a government, followed by a handshake and a photo to mark the transfer of power. Meanwhile, news helicopters and commentators will capture the dramatic moments outside the palace.
After the ceremony, the new prime minister will return to Downing Street, make a statement, and begin the work of governing.
Sunak’s Departure
Sunak, having faced a significant electoral defeat, will vacate the prime minister’s official residence promptly. After resigning, he will leave Buckingham Palace in a private vehicle and head to his private residence. The transition is so rapid that a moving van for the outgoing leader is usually present near Downing Street’s back door as the new leader arrives at the front.
Significance of the Ceremony
The royal choreography symbolizes stability and continuity amidst political transitions. The monarchy remains a ceremonial anchor above political divides, reflecting the UK's ability to change governments without unrest, according to George Gross, a royal expert at King’s College London.
In his brief reign, King Charles III is greeting his second prime minister, following the example of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who saw 15 prime ministers during her 70-year reign. This continuity amidst changing political leadership highlights the enduring nature of the monarchy.
What Comes Next
The king will hold weekly meetings with the new prime minister to discuss government matters, maintaining a politically neutral stance while offering advice if needed. These discussions remain confidential. Charles will also preside over the state opening of Parliament later this month, delivering a speech outlining the government’s legislative agenda, further underscoring the continuity and ceremonial role of the monarchy in the UK's political process.
[Source: Reuters]
