king's speech what time

King’s Speech 2023: What time is it on Christmas day and how to watch

The royal tradition allows the sovereign head of state to reflect on the year and values of the nation in a ten minute pre-recorded speech

• 10:12, 24 Dec 2023

King Charles ' second Christmas Day speech as monarch is nearly upon us. Royal fans and critics alike are waiting to hear how he will reflect on the year which has passed.

Last year, it was King Charles' first King's Christmas Day speech in nearly seventy years, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II . He said: "Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition."

Ever since the first festive address of this kind was delivered in 1932, the annual tradition has become a key event for families across the country, who gather together to remind themselves of what has come and what to look forward to in the next year.

Here's what you can expect from the 2023 speech, plus how and where to watch it.

What time is the King's speech?

King Charles' festive broadcast is set to air on Monday, December 25.

The speech is due to be broadcast at 3pm on Christmas Day in keeping with tradition.

It will be shown on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV , and Sky News. On BBC One, the broadcast will be followed by a screening of Toy Story 4. Meanwhile, In For a Christmas Penny will follow the broadcast on ITV.

For those looking to watch online, the Christmas Address has also been streamed on the Royal Family YouTube Channel and Facebook page in the past.

What to expect

The contents of the King's Speech aren't known yet and won't be revealed until broadcast. However, the Christmas address typically reflects on the events of the year.

It's expected that King Charles III will speak about his coronation, alongside the issues affecting the UK and broader global events, before looking ahead to 2024.

How many people will watch the King's speech?

Millions of Brits are expected to watch the King's speech on Christmas Day. Last year, King Charles’s Christmas Day message was the most watched address by a monarch on record, viewing figures have shown.

Around 10.6 million tuned in for the eight-minute briefing. Back in 2020, the Queen's speech was crowned the most viewed programme of the day after 8.2 million people turned in. Meanwhile, the 2021 version brought in a staggering 9.1 million viewers - again securing the top spot.

What will be different this year?

This year's message from King Charles will reflect his green credential by including a living Christmas tree for the first time.

It was covered with “natural and sustainable decorations, including hand turned wood, dried oranges, brown glass, pine cones and paper” and it will be replanted.

There were no clues to content of Charles second Christmas address, recorded in the Palace’s Centre Room, part of the private quarters and near the balcony where he celebrated his Coronation.

Charles, 75, is said to have written the 10-minute speech without the help of his advisers.

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What time is the King's Speech and what TV channel is it on?

King Charles III will deliver his second Christmas Day speech this year

• 08:01, 25 DEC 2023

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King Charles III is set to deliver his annual Christmas speech. It marks only the second speech delivered by a king in nearly seven decades. The pre-recorded speech will be aired live across the UK on Christmas Day, December 25.

As is tradition, the King is expected to recount the major events of 2023 as well as some of the issues currently affecting the country. However, it is not yet clear what exactly he will discuss.

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Generally, the King's Speech will ais at 3pm on Christmas Day (Monday, December 25).

What channel the King's Speech will be aired on

As has become tradition by this point, the King's Speech will be televised on BBC One, BBC Two and ITV1.

However, those who want to watch it on their phone, laptop, or smartphone can do so by tuning in on BBC iPlayer.

The speech can also be listened to on BBC Radio 4 or by heading to BBC Sounds. Last year, the King delivered his speech in the wake of his mother's death.

At the time, he said: "Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones.

"We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition."

The King himself has had a few highlights in the first full year of his reign, from his Coronation Day in May to his first State Opening of Parliament in November.

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Watch: King Charles delivers Speech for first time as monarch at State Opening of Parliament

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Watch as King Charles III delivers the King's Speech for first time as monarch at the state opening of Parliament on Tuesday, 7 November.

The King read out a speech setting out the legislative programme for the new parliamentary session, but he has no role in setting this agenda - he read out the list on behalf of Rishi Sunak and the government.

This year's speech - the first King's Speech in seven decades after the death of Queen Elizabeth II - set out sentencing reforms, a smoking crackdown and a move to phase out leasehold.

With a general election predicted in 2024, the prime minister is expected to seek to make law and order a key election battleground.

Mr Sunak was expected to detail a series of measures in the King’s Speech promising tougher sentences for killers, rapists, and grooming gang ringleaders.

The speech also proposed a law that would stop children who turn 14 this year and those younger from ever legally buying cigarettes or tobacco in England.

The smoking law was promised by Mr Sunak at the Tory conference.

Other measures in the speech include allowing police to enter a property without a warrant to seize stolen goods, such as phones, when they have reasonable proof that a specific stolen item is inside.

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How to Watch King Charles III’s Speech Live in the U.S.

• King Charles III

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One day after Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, her son, King Charles III, is due to address the nation, likely pledging his allegiance as the new reigning monarch and paying tribute to his mother, who served 70 years on the throne.

In a statement released Thursday (Sept. 8), the King wrote, “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family. We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-beloved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.”

He continued, “During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which The Queen was so widely held.”

Time to clear your schedules because here’s everything we know about how you can watch his televised speech in the United States:

What time is King Charles III making his speech?

The pre-recorded speech, which will take place in Buckingham Palace, is set to air today at 1 p.m. ET.

How can I watch King Charles III’s speech in the U.S.?

Luckily for us folk on the other side of the pond, live streaming exists. Therefore, we can watch the speech here in the U.S. as it airs on Britain’s Sky News and ITV News YouTube channels, as well as ABC News and NBC News , who are both airing live coverage. It will also stream from the Royal Family’s official Twitter and YouTube pages.

Where can I re-watch King Charles III’s speech?

If that 1 p.m. timeframe doesn’t work for you, fear not. Aside from the clips that will most definitely be circulating on TikTok and YouTube (and likely replaying on every major news channel), you can re-watch the King’s speech on BBC iPlayer , the video on demand service provided by BBC, where it will be available to stream after it has already aired.

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What time is the King’s Speech today? How to watch the State Opening of Parliament live

King Charles III  will deliver his first  King’s Speech since becoming monarch today .

This is the first State Opening of Parliament since Queen Elizabeth II’s death last September, and will be the first King’s Speech in seven decades.

The King did also deliver the address at the last  State Opening  in March 2022, though on that occasion he was doing so on the Queen’s behalf, as she was not able to attend due to mobility issues.

King Charles will read out the Government’s aims for the upcoming session, which will then be debated and voted on in Parliament.

It will be the first time  Rishi Sunak  has had his  plans delivered in a King’s Speech  since he entered No 10, and will likely be his last chance ahead of the  next general election .

What time is the King’s Speech?

The 2023 King’s Speech will be delivered on Tuesday 7 November , with the House meeting at 11.25am . There will be live coverage on BBC News and Sky News.

Afterwards the House will be suspended until 2.30pm, and then the debate on the speech will begin, with both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, Sir Keir Starmer, invited to speak.

The debate normally lasts for six sitting days before a vote is taken.

What is the King’s Speech? Parliament runs in sessions that generally last for around a year, although the length can vary. A new parliamentary session begins with the official State Opening of Parliament and a King’s Speech, in which the Government sets out the laws it wants to pass over the coming session. Parliament must then approve the speech by voting in favour of it. While the speech is delivered by the monarch, its contents are written by the Government. The monarch’s arrival at Parliament is typically a grand affair, as they travel from Buckingham Palace to Westminster by carriage, before delivering the speech from the throne in the House of Lords. MPs have their own protocol to follow and before the speech are summoned to the House of Lords by an official known as Black Rod. Before they enter the House of Commons, Black Rod has the door shut in their face to symbolise the chamber’s independence from the monarchy.

What should we expect?

Downing Street has said the King’s Speech will look to build on the Prime Minister’s priorities of growing the economy – one of his five pledges made to the electorate in January – and safeguarding the UK’s energy independence.

A statement added the speech will also “ensure the UK is fully securing the benefits of Brexit and build the most competitive and supportive environment for businesses to capitalise on new technologies”.

The speech will have a significant focus on crime, with No 10 saying it will “include a package of measures focused on strengthening our society and helping people to feel safe in their communities”.

It is expected to contain a new criminal justice bill that includes tougher sentencing for serious crimes such as rape.

Related Article

Everything you need to know about the state opening of parliament.

New legislation which will force offenders to attend their sentencing – announced by Justice Secretary Alex Chalk in August amid anger over nurse Lucy Letby’s refusal to appear in court – is set to be included among these crime measures.

Legislation to phase out smoking and ban anyone born after 1 January, 2009 from buying cigarettes is set to be in the speech.

There are reports that the speech will also contain reforms to the leasehold system, ensuring that all houses in England and Wales will have to be sold under freeholds in the future.

The Government is expected to announce it will overhaul the process of extending leases and give leaseholders more power to manage their building and service charges.

The Renters (Reform) Bill will also return, having been carried over from the previous parliamentary session – but will not feature a ban on “no-fault” section 21 evictions after the pledge was delayed indefinitely by Housing Secretary Michael Gove.

Awkwardly, the King will have to announce new laws opposed by green groups , despite his own background as an environmental campaigner.

One measure mandates a new round of licensing for oil and gas projects in the North Sea every year, setting up a dividing line with Labour which has pledged to phase out fossil fuel exploration.

Another bill bans councils from passing environmental rules which the Government believes penalise motorists, such as blanket 20mph speed limits and low-emission zones .

The Prime Minister said: “This will be the first King’s Speech in 70 years and the legislation we will bring forward is part of our plan to build a better future for the next seventy.

“Just as I have done with energy security, net zero, illegal migration and HS2, the King’s Speech will take the long-term decisions to address the challenges this country faces, not the easy way out with short-term gimmicks.

“As we take the necessary steps to halve inflation and reduce debt, we will legislate to grow the economy, by supporting innovative businesses and protecting consumers.

“To make the real change this country needs, we will bring forward bills that strengthen our society, help people feel safer in their own communities and give a sense of pride in the place they call home.”

King’s Speech 2023: What is it and what will be in it?

• Monday 6 November 2023 at 7:54pm

The country's eyes will be on King Charles on Tuesday as he delivers his first state opening of Parliament as monarch - complete with all its pomp and ceremony.

A smoking crackdown, sentencing changes, and a move to phase out leaseholds could all be included in this year's King’s Speech, which Rishi Sunak promised would offer long-term decisions, not “short-term gimmicks”.

The state opening of parliament will also make history, with Charles set to give the first King’s Speech in seven decades to mark the start of the next session of Parliament.

But what is it and what does the day involve?

What is the state opening of Parliament?

The event marks the formal start of the parliamentary year and sets out the government’s proposed policies for the 2023-24 session.

It normally takes place annually with MPs, peers and the monarch all in attendance at the Palace of Westminster.

A key component of the ceremony is the King’s Speech, where he sets out the legislative programme for the coming session. 

The late Queen Elizabeth II delivered the speech a total of 67 times during her reign and only missed it on a handful of occasions.

Although Charles delivered that speech on behalf of his mother in May 2022, this is the first time he will be delivering it as monarch, and in doing so is the first King since George VI, in 1950, to address Parliament.

The King has no role in setting the legislative agenda, but reads out the list on behalf of the prime minister and the government.

What traditions are there a nd why are they holding an MP hostage?

Traditionally, the event starts with a procession, when the King travels from Buckingham Palace to Westminster by carriage.

T he late Queen sometimes arrived at Westminster by car instead of carriage, due to mobility issues - but King Charles is using the Irish State Coach escorted by the Household Cavalry. 

The event is known for its unique customs, some of which date back to the 17th century, as well as the pomp and ceremony that greets the monarch upon their arrival at Parliament.

The sight of Black Rod banging on the door of the Commons is one of the best known traditions, as is the taking of one MP “hostage” to secure the safe return of the monarch.

Once inside, the King, wearing the Imperial State Crown and the Robe of State, leads the Royal Procession to the Chamber of the House of Lords.

It's here, in front of MPs, peers and other dignitaries, that the speech, formally called the Speech from the Throne, is read out by King Charles.

When the King leaves, a new parliamentary session starts and Parliament gets back to work.

The contents of the speech are then debated by Members of both Houses and an ‘Address in Reply to His Majesty's Gracious Speech is agreed.

Over the following days, the planned legislative programme is debated and then the Commons vote on the monarch’s speech.

Does the King write the King's Speech?

Although it's called the King's Speech, and is delivered by the monarch, it is actually written by the government.

It outlines the policies and proposed legislation for the new parliamentary session. Its length depends on the number of proposed laws and other announcements - such as foreign-policy objectives - but it normally lasts about 10 minutes.

There is usually a lengthy list of planned bills within the King’s Speech.

This year is a little different, with a range of planned legislative changes due to be read out by the King, although few are new.

What topics could be covered in the speech?

Leasehold reform -  plans to “phase out” leaseholds which are set to include banning new leasehold houses so all new houses are freehold from the outset.

Criminal justice - plans to force convicted criminals to be in court for their sentencing and a new bill to see fewer offenders receiving short-term prison sentences, with low-risk individuals instead receiving community orders.

Smoking - the King may introduce  a law to stop children who turn 14 this year and those younger from ever legally buying cigarettes or tobacco in England.

Oil and gas licences - the government plans to mandate annual oil and gas licensing in the North Sea.

Football regulation - Plans for a new independent football regulator were confirmed in February, with the body set to have “targeted powers” to step in and resolve how money flows from the Premier League down the pyramid.

For the latest royal news, listen to our podcast, the Royal Rota...

What time is the King’s speech on TV today? and how you can watch it

The first Christmas Broadcast was delivered by George V in 1932.

• 08:30, 25 DEC 2023

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King Charles will deliver his annual message to the nation today for the second time.

The monarch’s first ever Christmas broadcast took place in 2022 following the death of his mother, the Queen.

Last year the King reflected on the death of the Queen after a 70-year reign.

He said: “Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition.”

Traditionally, the 10-minute speech is recorded in advance of the broadcast and will reflect the issues that have dominated the year before the monarch sends festive best wishes.

It’s been a big year for Charles - with his coronation and 75th birthday taking place, as well as being his first full year as King. So these could be topics people can expect to see covered.

What time is the King’s Christmas speech today?

The King’s speech will be broadcast on BBC One at 3pm and will be available on iPlayer, while the audio will be on BBC Radio 4 as well as BBC Sounds.

Buckingham Palace said: “The Christmas Broadcast is an intrinsic part of Christmas Day festivities for many people across the Commonwealth.

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“Each broadcast carefully reflects current issues and concerns, and shares The Monarch's reflections on what Christmas means to them and their listeners. Over the years, the Christmas Broadcast has acted as a chronicle of global, national and personal events which have affected The [monarch] and [their] audience.”

Is there an alternative?

There is! If you’re not a fan of the monarchy you can catch Channel 4’s annual alternative speech, this year by Stephen Fry. Danny Dyer and The Simpsons cast have had the privilege in past years.

Royals latest news

The Channel 4 version will be broadcast at the same time as the King’s Speech, at 3pm.

et the latest celebrity gossip and telly news sent straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily Showbiz newsletter here .

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What will be in the King's speech? Here's what we're expecting - from smoking crackdown to focus on crime

We take a look at what to expect from today's ceremony - and examine what plans for the country's future might be unveiled.

Political reporter @NifS

Tuesday 7 November 2023 07:23, UK

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Westminster will be awash with pomp and ceremony today as parliament hosts the King's Speech.

Update: First King's Speech in decades as tougher sentences for serious offenders announced

But what will the day involve and how will it play out? And what plans for the country's future are likely to be unveiled?

Read on to find out all you need to know.

What is the King's Speech?

While a parliament - meaning the period of time between general elections - can last for up to five years, a new parliamentary session is normally launched annually. It gives the government of the day a chance to outline its legislative plans for the year ahead.

The start of a new session is marked with the grandest of ceremonies, the State Opening of Parliament.

It brings together members of the House of Commons and House of Lords, as well as the monarchy, dressed up in their finest regalia for the day ahead. Look out for the robes, britches and, of course, the crown.

After numerous traditions are played out - from searching the bowels of the building for gunpowder to slamming a door in Black Rod's face - peers and MPs gather in front of the monarch to listen to them deliver the King's (or Queen's) Speech.

While the address may be read out by the head of state, the content is written by the government and sees their legislative agenda given a stately introduction to the ears of parliamentarians and the public.

The speech will fall to King Charles III in his first state opening as monarch - though he had a dry run back in May 2022, when he stood in for his mother due to her mobility issues.

The late Queen Elizabeth II delivered the speech a total of 67 times during her reign, and only missed it on a handful of occasions, including when she was pregnant with Prince Andrew and then Prince Edward.

After the document is read out, MPs return to the Commons and spend around five days debating its content, but not before two backbench MPs nominated by the prime minister kick off proceedings by giving a loyal address to parliament - a light-hearted affair, often littered with some cringeworthy jokes.

What will the speech mean for Rishi Sunak?

This is the first time this prime minister has had his plans delivered in a King's Speech since he moved in to Number 10.

Liz Truss's short premiership meant she missed out on this particular spotlight for her policy agenda. Boris Johnson was the last prime minister to oversee a state opening 18 months ago .

Read more: King's Speech: Plans centred around criminal justice to be unveiled King will have to announce measures we know he's bound to dislike Hard to see how Sunak's first King's Speech won't be his last - analysis

King's Speech live: Watch our special programme on Sky News, hosted by Sophy Ridge, from 10.30am today. You will also be able to follow the event live via the Politics Hub on the Sky News app and website .

Tuesday's ceremony is likely to be the final King's Speech of this parliament as Mr Sunak will have to call a general election by the end of January 2025 at the latest.

That means it may also be his last chance to show both his party and the public what he stands for, following his first year of trying to steady the ship after the chaos surrounding last autumn's revolving door in Downing Street.

Hard to see how Rishi Sunak's first King's Speech won't be his last

Political editor

The King's Speech is supposed to be the landmark moment in the life of parliament.

It is the occasion for a prime minister to set down his or her mission for government, and outline the laws they will pass to try to achieve their goals.

But this year, the moment will belong to King Charles III, rather than Rishi Sunak, for two reasons.

First is the sheer symbolism of the new monarch delivering the first King's Speech in over seven decades.

An epoch-making moment, it reminds us all in the most formal of settings, laced with symbolism, that we have passed from the first Elizabethan era to the new Carolean age.

Second is the reality of Mr Sunak's predicament.

His first King's Speech in power will be less about landing a vision and more about holding position, for this is a prime minister running out of time and with little space to push through new ideas.

Read Beth Rigby's full analysis here

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Mr Sunak will also need to bring his MPs and members with him to ensure they back his leadership going into the looming general election, so he may choose to be cautious with his priorities - while throwing some red meat to please particular wings of the Conservative Party .

But the upcoming national poll also leaves questions over how much legislation the prime minister and his government can push through in a short space of time - during which MPs will also want to be out on the doorstep campaigning to keep their seats.

What will be in the speech?

While the spectacle of the speech is designed for a new legislative agenda to be proposed, the government can also "carry over" some bills from the previous session that it was unable to pass into law.

According to the House of Commons Library, five carry-over motions have been agreed for bills, giving them another 12 months to achieve royal assent, namely:

• Data Protection and Digital Information (No 2) Bill - which aims to update the UK's data protection laws post-Brexit

• Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill - which proposes new powers to improve competition between online businesses and new protections for consumers

• Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) Bill - which would introduce a ban on public bodies, such as councils, from boycotting other countries, with a special status for Israel

• Victims and Prisoners Bill - which aims to improve support for victims of crime, along with reform of the parole system

• Renters (Reform) Bill - which features proposed changes to regulations covering the rented housing sector

Two so-called "hybrid" bills will also continue to be scrutinised in the next parliament - one on the future of the northern leg of HS2, which was scrapped by Mr Sunak at his party's conference , and one on a Holocaust memorial in Westminster.

The Commons' researchers have also highlighted several bills announced in the last session that were never officially introduced, meaning they could return under Mr Sunak.

They include the much-touted ban on conversion therapy - though some on the right of the party could influence Number 10 to chuck it out - as well as further measures to tackle modern slavery and a transport bill to bring in some of the HS2 replacement projects announced by the prime minister.

What new proposals are we expecting?

Ministers have already confirmed there will be a bill to phase out leaseholds, with all new houses in England and Wales having to be sold as freehold properties.

Mr Sunak's party conference announcement to raise the legal age for buying cigarettes in England by one year every year to phase out smoking is sure to get a showing too.

But reports suggest the major focus will be on crime , not just with existing plans being finalised - such as compelling criminals to attend sentencing - but with the introduction of bills to introduce tougher sentences for serious crimes, such as rape, and a scheme to rent prison space abroad.

The prime minister is also expected to accelerate his plans to disrupt existing net zero policies with the introduction of an annual system to award new oil and gas licences.

Meanwhile, the government could give its backing to establishing an independent football regulator .

By lunchtime on Tuesday, we will have the full list of what Mr Sunak has in store.

It could either be his springboard to winning the next election - or his last legislative dance while still holding the keys to Number 10.

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What time is the King's Speech as Charles delivers Christmas Broadcast to nation

Some channels won't be showing it and one will air an alternative message instead

• 07:07, 25 DEC 2023

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King Charles III will be sending festive wishes and reflecting on events of the past year when he delivers his Christmas speech to the nation. It will be the second time he has delivered the seasonal address as head of the Royal Family .

His first Christmas Broadcast as the new monarch was in December 2022, just three months after the death of Queen Elizabeth II and his accession to the throne. This year has seen the Coronation Service of King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Westminster Abbey in May and then Charles celebrating his 75th birthday in November.

Buckingham Palace said: "Each broadcast carefully reflects current issues and concerns, and shares the monarch's reflections on what Christmas means to them and their listeners. Over the years, the Christmas Broadcast has acted as a chronicle of global, national and personal events which have affected the monarch and their audience."

• Royal expert reveals 'real' reason Meghan Markle did not attend King Charles' coronation

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When is the King's Christmas speech this year?

King Charles' Christmas broadcast for 2023 will be shown on Christmas Day from 3pm to 3.10pm on BBC1, BBC2, ITV1 and ITV3, and is also on Sky Showcase and Sky News at the same time.

Channel 4 and Channel 5 aren't screening the King's broadcast, but Channel 4 will air The Alternative Christmas Message from 5.10pm to 5.20pm, this year delivered by Stephen Fry who will give an impassioned plea to stand up against the rise in antisemitism. The alternative message first aired in 1993 and has featured a wide range of presenters.

What did he say last time?

In his 2022 address, Charles reflected on the death of the Queen and said Christmas could be a poignant time for anyone who had lost loved ones. He said: "I am standing here in this exquisite Chapel of St George at Windsor Castle, so close to where my beloved mother, the late Queen, is laid to rest with my dear father. I am reminded of the deeply touching letters, cards and messages which so many of you have sent my wife and myself and I cannot thank you enough for the love and sympathy you have shown our whole family.

"Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition."

He concluded it by saying: "While Christmas is, of course, a Christian celebration, the power of light overcoming darkness is celebrated across the boundaries of faith and belief. So, whatever faith you have, or whether you have none, it is in this life-giving light, and with the true humility that lies in our service to others, that I believe we can find hope for the future. Let us therefore celebrate it together, and cherish it always.

"With all my heart, I wish each of you a Christmas of peace, happiness and everlasting light."

Is it a live broadcast?

The King's speech won't be a live broadcast. These days the reigning monarch always records their message in advance, usually several days before Christmas.

The first ever Christmas Broadcast was delivered on the radio by King George V in 1932. It was scripted by writer Rudyard Kipling and read from a temporary studio that had been set up at Sandringham House.

The message became an annual tradition, except for 1959 and 1963 when the Queen was heavily pregnant, and in 1969 when a repeat of the documentary Royal Family was already scheduled to be shown over the festive period.

Queen Elizabeth II made her first Christmas Broadcast in December 1952, following her accession earlier that year. The first televised message was broadcast live in 1957 but from 1960 the speeches were recorded in advance so that tapes could be sent overseas to all the Commonwealth countries in good time.

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King’s Speech returns to Britain after 72-year absence, amid great pomp

LONDON — King Charles III wore a very heavy crown. Someone called Black Rod had a door slammed in her face. A lawmaker was held “hostage” by Buckingham Palace.

It was the state opening of Parliament, that time of year when the British monarch announces the legislation on the government’s agenda, but because this is Britain, there was an elaborate ceremony steeped in ancient customs that may seem slightly confusing to the uninitiated.

It was also the first time in more than 70 years that a king delivered the speech, an event made famous — at least for Americans — by the 2010 film starring Colin Firth as the wartime monarch George VI overcoming a speech impediment. Since 1952, it’s been a queen doing the job, although Charles did stand in for his mother last year because of her ill health.

Prince Charles opens Parliament, but it’s still the Queen’s Speech

It was the first such event, too, for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak — and he will be hoping it’s not his last. His Conservative Party is trailing badly in opinion polls, and an election must be held by January 2025.

The King’s Speech is read by the king sitting upon a gilded throne, but really the monarch is just the messenger. The speech is written entirely by the government and is the moment when the prime minister shows what the ruling party’s priorities are. Because there’s a looming election, this speech was watched closely for clues of how the Conservatives plan to campaign.

One of the first bills that Charles, a lifelong environmentalist, found himself reading out was for a new system for awarding oil and gas licenses annually. Under the current system, the licenses are awarded periodically, but the government says the new policy is important for energy security. Charles read the words with the deadpan delivery expected of a monarch, who is supposed to be above politics.

“This bill will support the future licensing of new oil and gas fields, helping the country to transition to net zero by 2050, without adding undue burdens on households,” the king said.

Environmental groups oppose the measure, saying that Britain should focus on renewables and that the move is an attempt to create a wedge issue with the opposition Labour Party.

Sunak to delay U.K. climate goals to avoid ‘bankrupting’ Britons

Charles, or rather the speech he was given to read, also announced legislative initiatives including a phased smoking ban to create a “smoke-free generation”; a new regulator for English soccer; greater powers for judges to compel convicted criminals to appear in the dock for their sentencing hearing; and a ban on public bodies boycotting Israel .

The ceremony was a collection of centuries-old customs that recall a time when the relationship between the monarch and Parliament was a great deal more fraught. Before Charles arrived at Parliament, royal bodyguards searched its cellars for explosives — a reference to Guy Fawkes’s 1605 “gunpowder plot,” an unsuccessful attempt by English Catholics to blow up Protestant King James I and Parliament.

The best-known part of the ceremony was probably when Black Rod , a senior official in the House of Lords, approached the House of Commons, only to see the door slammed in her face — this was meant to symbolize the House of Commons’ independence from the monarch.

Undeterred by the frosty reception, Black Rod then banged three times with an ebony staff — there is a dent from the banging over the years — and the door to the House of Commons chamber was finally opened. Lawmakers then emerged and followed Black Rod to the House of Lords to hear the monarch’s speech.

In another tradition, inspired by the beheading of King Charles I in 1649, a lawmaker was held “hostage” at Buckingham Palace during the ceremony to guarantee the monarch’s safe return.

The costumes were elaborate. Lindsay Hoyle, the speaker of the House of Commons, spoke enthusiastically about his clothes to the BBC: “I don’t wear tights every day! So today is the day I put my tights, my breeches on, of course the jacket and the golden gown. … What I always think is special is the lace.”

Charles and Queen Camilla made the short journey between Buckingham Palace and Westminster in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, a horse-drawn carriage. Some of the regalia — the Cap of Maintenance, the Great Sword of State and the Imperial State Crown, which is set with 2,868 diamonds — arrived in their own carriage.

After the speech, lawmakers shuffled back to the House of Commons for a “humble address,” the name given to the days-long debate over the proposals.

Labour leader Keir Starmer accused Sunak of delivering “more of the same,” while Sunak said his counterpart had no vision for the country.

The normal cut-and-thrust of politics had resumed.

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What time is the King’s speech at the State Opening of Parliament on November 7?

• Shanine Bruder
• Published : 8:32, 7 Nov 2023
• Updated : 9:48, 7 Nov 2023

KING Charles is set to deliver the King's Speech as part of the State Opening of Parliament.

The occasion will mark the monarch's first King's Speech since assuming the throne - but what time will it take place and what is he expected to say? Here's everything you need to know.

What time is the King's speech?

Ahead of the ceremony the King will travel from Buckingham Palace to Parliament where he will then read a speech, written by  Rishi Sunak's Government, to MPs and peers in the House of Lords.

King Charles will deliver the King's speech today (Tuesday, November 7, 2023).

The speech is expected to begin after Charles takes to the throne at around 11.30am.

Also holding a key role at King Charles’ first State Opening of Parliament is Princess Anne .

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The Royal will act as the  Gold-Stick-in-Waiting , an enormous and much deserved privilege awarded for her decades of loyalty.

On completion of the speech, the procession will then return to the Robing Room before the King makes his way back to the Palace.

What is King Charles expected to say at the State Opening of Parliament?

The King’s speech sets out the government’s legislative and policy proposals for the forthcoming parliamentary session. 

According to the government website: ''The Speech will focus on putting in the right laws , where we need them, to safeguard the future prosperity of the United Kingdom, seize economic opportunities and deliver a brighter future.''

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A number of topics are expected to be covered in today's speech including leasehold reform - plans to ''phase out'' leaseholds which are set to include banning new leasehold houses so all new houses are freehold from the outset.

Other topics include criminal justice, with the speech rumoured to cover plans to force offenders to be in court for their sentencing and a new criminal justice bill that includes tougher sentencing for serious crimes .

Aside from the King's speech is expected to also discuss football regulation .

In his Speech at the State Opening of Parliament, the King will confirm that his Government is going ahead with plans to create a new body to oversee the game.

The move, recommended by the fan-led review which was fronted by former sports minister  Tracey Crouch , has cross-party support.

Other topics expected to be covered include smoking and oil and gas licences.

King Charles is also expected to pay tribute to his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II .

Who else will speak at the State Opening of Parliament?

When the Monarch leaves, a new parliamentary session starts, which will see service resume as normal in Parliament once again. 

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The House will be suspended until 2.30pm, and then the debate on the speech will begin.

Both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, Sir Keir Starmer will be invited to speak.

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What time is the King's Speech? How to watch King's Christmas broadcast this year

King Charles III will again address the nation on Christmas Day

• 10:42, 21 DEC 2023

December 25 will see King Charles III make his second annual Christmas Day broadcast to the nation.

The speech is an integral part of Christmas Day, having taken place since 1932. Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth II, delivered the Christmas speech each year since it was first broadcast in 1957.

King Charles made his first speech on Christmas Day 2022, with the event being the first time a king delivered a Christmas speech since King George VI addressed the nation on the radio in 1951.

READ MORE: Every word of the King's Speech at Christmas 2022

READ MORE: Princess Diana 'praised' the work of Brookside's Dean Sullivan

This year's King's Speech will take place at 3pm on Monday, December 25. It will air on BBC One, BBC Two, and ITV . It usually lasts for around ten minutes.

Last year, His Majesty paid tribute to his late mother and thanked people for their "deeply touching letters, cards, and messages" in the wake of her death. He also commended the "selfless dedication of our Armed Forces and Emergency Services who work tirelessly to keep us all safe, and who performed so magnificently as we mourned the passing of our late Queen."

His Majesty continued: "While Christmas is, of course, a Christian celebration, the power of light overcoming darkness is celebrated across the boundaries of faith and belief. So, whatever faith you have, or whether you have none, it is in this life-giving light, and with the true humility that lies in our service to others, that I believe we can find hope for the future.

"Let us therefore celebrate it together, and cherish it always. With all my heart, I wish each of you a Christmas of peace, happiness and everlasting light."

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What time is the King's Speech? How to watch King Charles' first Christmas Broadcast

King Charles III will be making his first-ever televised Christmas Day Speech in 2022 - here's everything you need to know

• 09:00, 25 DEC 2022

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King Charles will make his first-ever Christmas Day Speech on Sunday, December 25. The Christmas Broadcast is an intrinsic part of Christmas Day festivities having taken place since 1932 when the first one was delivered by the late Queen's grandfather George V.

And while the 2022 address will be King Charles' first festive broadcast, it will also be the first time a male Monarch has delivered a televised Christmas speech. The last time a King delivered a speech on Christmas Day was over the radio in 1951.

This is because the first televised message wasn't broadcast live until 1957. It allowed viewers to see The Queen in her own residences, decorated for Christmas like many homes across the world for the first time.

Read more: All the ITV dramas coming this winter from Nolly, to Without Sin and You & Me

While the exact details of the King's speech have been kept under wraps, it is expected he will honour his mother and her incredible 70-year reign in his broadcast after Her Majesty passed away on September 8, 2022.

What time is the King's Speech?

King Charles III will make his first Christmas Day speech as Monarch in 2022 and, as is tradition, the broadcast will air at 3pm on Christmas Day.

The speech will last for 10 minutes, ending at 3:10pm. It is not a live broadcast, having been recorded earlier this month.

The King's Speech will be available to watch at 3pm on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV One and Sky One on Christmas Day. The speech will be available to watch on iPlayer and ITVX after it is first broadcast.

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What time is the King's speech on Christmas Day and what channel is it on?

The first festive message of his reign

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Wondering what time the King's speech is on during Christmas Day? We've shared all the need to know details on how to watch.

Tinsel, turkey and all the trimmings - some things are synonymous with Christmas Day, and the annual monarch's speech is one of them. For the last 70 years, Brits and those across the Commonwealth have enjoyed a festive address from her late Majesty. But Christmas 2022 brings with it big change following the death of Queen Elizabeth II .

Now in the new Carolean era , audiences are getting ready to watch King Charles I's Christmas Day message - the first of his reign. For many households this will be a highlight of the Christmas TV schedule , so here's the details on time, channel and where this year's message is filmed.

What time is the King's Speech on Christmas Day?

As is tradition, this year's King's Speech will be broadcast at 3pm GMT on Christmas Day. 2022 marks King Charles' first Christmas Day message and the first address from a King in over 70 years.

The monarch's message to the nation has been televised since 1957, with Queen Elizabeth II recording 69 during her reign. The speech is not live, having instead been pre-recorded by the monarch a few days prior.

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Several media outlets have claimed that King Charles filmed his speech on December 13. Buckingham Palace have since confirmed that the King recorded his message in the Quire of St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle . He's seen standing next to a Christmas tree which is decorated with sustainable ornaments made of paper, glass and pine cones. 

The chapel is also festively decorated in English foliage such as holly, berried ivy and red skimmia.

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The filming location of Christmas speeches has varied over the years. Some have been previously recorded at Buckingham Palace, seeing as it's the primary residence of the British monarch. Sandringham in Norfolk - where the royals often spend Christmas - has also paid host to previous Christmas speeches. Sandringham is also where King Charles' great-great grandfather George V delivered the first ever Christmas speech to the nation - via radio in 1932.

The Queen's last Christmas Day message - which aired in 2021 - was also filmed from Windsor Castle. Sat behind a desk in the White Drawing Room, the Queen paid tribute to the late Prince Philip in her address, reflecting on Christmas being a difficult time for those who are missing loved ones.

What channel will the King's Speech be on?

This year the King's Speech will be available to watch on four channels: BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1 and Sky One . Starting at 3pm, the address to the nation will last approximately 10 minutes.

Since 1997, the monarch's speech has been shown by all three broadcasters - who take it in turn to record the message. They work on a rota-based system which changes every two years. The edited footage is then shared with the rest of the world's media so they too can broadcast it in other territories on Christmas Day.

What will the King's speech be about?

Buckingham Palace never reveal the contents of the Queen or King's speech in advance of the broadcast. However, it's thought that this year's address will almost certainly pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II who passed away on September 8, 2022.

After his speech, the broadcast will follow with a Christmas carol and the National Anthem performed by the St George's Chapel choir.

Jeremy Archer , author of A Royal Christmas agrees, sharing his thoughts with OK! magazine on how Charles will honour his late mother. "He’ll talk about how positive she was and how inclusive she was," he says. "It will be solemn and reflective, but it will show gratitude for her reign, her life and all the things she’s achieved."

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams agrees that The Queen will be at the heart of Charles' Christmas Day message. He told The National News : "I think it will be a very professional job, especially since he is well aware he will be the subject of such fascination. It is the first one. 

"In a year that will obviously see the queen’s death and the magnificent funeral at the centre of the speech, there is no doubt he will pay a very moving tribute to her."

Ingrid Seward , editor of Majesty magazine is expecting a picth-perfect performance from the monarch in his first Christmas Day address. "Over many years of public speaking the king has acquired the delivery of a professional actor and I have no doubt it will be a masterly performance," she wrote in the latest issue of Majesty .

Who writes the King's speech?

King Charles I is expected to write his own speech shared at Christmas - much like his late mother. Queen Elizabeth II was known for writing her own festive message with support from her advisors.

The first royal message was 251 words long, though Queen Elizabeth II's speeches were lengthier - averaging 656 words. After the Christmas message has been broadcast, the full transcript of the speech is then available to read on the official Royal Family website .

The UK and Commonwealth have only witnessed one address from King Charles I since taking to the throne. Airing on September 9, 2022 - the day after Queen Elizabeth II died - Charles addressed the nation as the new monarch, sharing in their grief at the Queen's passing.

He concluded his speech: "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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Emily Stedman is the former Features Editor for GoodTo covering all things TV, entertainment, royal, lifestyle, health and wellbeing. Boasting an encyclopaedic knowledge on all things TV, celebrity and royals, career highlights include working at HELLO! Magazine and as a royal researcher to Diana biographer Andrew Morton on his book Meghan: A Hollywood Princess . In her spare time, Emily can be found eating her way around London, swimming at her local Lido or curled up on the sofa binging the next best Netflix show.

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What time is the King's Speech on and how can you watch it

Much like his late mother, King Charles is continuing the tradition of delivering an annual Christmas message - but where and how can you watch the monarch's speech?

• 05:00, 25 DEC 2023

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King Charles will address the nation later today when his annual Christmas speech airs on TV.

This will be the monarch's second festive address after an incredibly busy year which has seen the Coronation, his landmark 75th birthday, several important foreign trips and a stream of family dramas.

The monarch is following in the footsteps of his predecessors by making a Christmas speech - an annual trend which was started by King George V in 1932.

From that year up until 1957, the speech could only be heard on the radio as Queen Elizabeth II became the first sovereign to have her message broadcast on TV.

The King will appear on TV today at 3pm in his annual slot where he will address the nation with his Christmas message.

The broadcast will air simultaneously on BBC One, ITV, Sky One, Sky News and you will be able to listen to it on BBC Radio 4.

You will also be able to watch the message online through the Royal Family ’s YouTube Channel and their Facebook page.

The message will be pre-recorded and will be accompanied by footage related to the King's speech.

While the exact contents of the monarch’s speech is not yet known, it is likely he will touch on his historic year that has included everything from his Coronation on 6 May to his 75th birthday on 14 November.

Much like his late mother, the King will likely pay homage to the religious significance of Christmas - as well as touch on some of global events taking place today, such as the war in Ukraine and the crisis in Gaza.

His speech last year, which was recorded in St George's Chapel, Windsor, saw the King pay tribute to his late mother and her faith in people's ability to do good.

You can watch the King's Christmas message on BBC One, ITV, Sky One, Sky News and BBC Radio 4 at 3pm.

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How to watch King Charles’s speech today: Live stream, TV channel and what time his address starts

It's believed he will pay tribute to the queen, who herself gave an enduring address to the nation on her 21st birthday in 1947.

King Charles will address the nation in his first speech since ascending the throne following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

It’s believed he will pay tribute to the Queen , the longest reigning monarch in British history, who herself gave an enduring address to the nation on her 21st birthday in 1947.

“I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong,” she said.

King Charles III is expected to repeat these words in his first televised address to the nation .

Speaking on Thursday evening, he said of his bereavement: “The death of my beloved mother, Her Majesty the Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family.

“We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved mother.

“I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.

“During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which the Queen was so widely held.”

What time is King Charles’s speech?

On Thursday, King Charles’s official spokesman confirmed that he will make his first speech following the death of his mother on Friday.

He is due to make the speech at about 6pm tonight, in a pre-recorded televised address. The new King is likely to keep the address relatively short as he pays the ultimate tribute to his late mother.

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How to watch King Charles’s speech

You can watch the King’s first speech as reigning monarch on this page, where there will be a livestream link.

The speech will also be streamed on every major TV channel across the UK, including BBC One, ITV and Channel 4.

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What time is King's speech at the State Opening of Parliament? How to watch the ceremony

• All you need to know about how and when you can watch the King's speech 
• King's Speech LIVE: King Charles will deliver his first State Opening of Parliament as monarch from 11am today

By Zac Campbell

Published: 15:00 EDT, 6 November 2023 | Updated: 08:20 EDT, 7 November 2023

View comments

Parliament will return from its annual summer recess period on Tuesday November 7, when the ceremonial State Opening of Parliament will take place.

Charles will open Parliament as king for the first time after his ascension to the throne following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022. 

But what time is the King's speech and how can you watch the ceremony? Read on below for all the key details. 

Charles sits by the The Imperial State Crown in the House of Lords Chamber, during the previous State Opening of Parliament in May 2022

What time is the King’s speech? 

Read more:  what happens at the state opening of parliament timetable and order of the day as the king is expected to pay tribute to his mother queen elizabeth ii.

The King’s speech sets out the government’s legislative and policy proposals for the forthcoming parliamentary session. 

Following a procession from Buckingham Palace to Parliament, which Charles will enter via the Sovereign's Entrance at around 11:20 am, he will enter the Robing Room.

Wearing the Imperial State Crown and the Robe of State, he will then lead the Royal Procession from a scheduled time of 11:27 am through the Royal Gallery, packed with 600 guests, to the chamber of the House of Lords. 

The King's speech is then expected to begin after Charles is seated on the throne around 11:30am. 

How to watch the King’s speech

The King's speech will be available to watch on a number of different TV channels across the UK. 

Sky News will be airing a special programme presented by Sophy Ridge from 10:30am on the day of the event. 

For the BBC, Nicky Campbell will present coverage from the Palace of Westminster for the ceremony. 

Who writes the King’s speech? 

The speech is written by the government, with its length depending on the number of proposed laws and other announcements - such as foreign-policy objectives - but normally lasts for around 10 minutes.

Beyond any words about his mother, the King's speech will contain a summary of government policies and proposed legislation for the new parliamentary session.

The King's speech is expected to begin after Charles is seated on the throne around 11:30am. Pictured: Charles at a state banquet at Bellevue Palace in Berlin in March 2023

When the Monarch leaves, a new parliamentary session starts, which will see service resume as normal in Parliament once again. 

Members of both Houses will then debate the contents of the speech and agree an ‘Address in Reply to His Majesty's Gracious Speech'. 

Each House continues the debate over the planned legislative programme for several days, looking at different subject areas. 

Topics included in the speech could include the phased smoking ban, announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at this year's Conservative Party conference, as well as the phasing out of some leaseholds. 

Housing minister Rachel Maclean has already confirmed that a bill to phase out selected leaseholds in England and Wales will feature, which could change the standard lease extension from 90 to 990 years for new houses, per the BBC . 

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What time is the King's Speech and where you can watch it

2022 marked the first year King Charles III had given a speech on Christmas day following the death of his mother

• 04:19, 25 DEC 2023

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Each year the monarch makes a speech to the nation and the commonwealth on Christmas Day in a tradition dating back to 1932. The King's Christmas speech refers to the traditional address given by the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom on Christmas Day.

The speech is broadcast on television and radio across the UK and in some Commonwealth countries. The content of the speech typically reflects on the events of the past year, offers messages of hope, unity, and often emphasizes the spirit of Christmas.

The specific content and themes of the King's (or Queen's) Christmas speech can vary depending on current events, societal concerns, and the overall tone the monarch wishes to convey. It's a moment where the monarch addresses the nation and often extends good wishes to the people, acknowledging both triumphs and challenges of the year gone by while looking ahead to the future.

2022 marked the first year King Charles III had given a speech on Christmas day following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

He said: "Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition.

"In the much-loved carol O Little Town Of Bethlehem we sing of how 'in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light'. My mother's belief in the power of that light was an essential part of her faith in God, but also her faith in people and it is one which I share with my whole heart.

"It is a belief in the extraordinary ability of each person to touch, with goodness and compassion, the lives of others, and to shine a light in the world around them. This is the essence of our community and the very foundation of our society."

The King's Speech this year will be broadcast at 3pm on Monday, December 25. It will be shown on BBC One, BBC Two and BBCiPlayer

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Behind the ancient coronation traditions as King Charles is blessed, anointed and crowned

LONDON — While King Charles III , 74, has ruled since his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in September, on Saturday he was crowned monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, also becoming the largely ceremonial head of the Commonwealth .  

The U.K. is the only country in Europe to hold a lavish coronation ceremony — other countries, such as France , have abolished the monarchy, opted for a more simple affair, like Norway, or have never had coronations, such as the Netherlands.

It was the 40th coronation at Westminster Abbey, a tradition dating to 1066. Charles’ wife, Camilla , previously known as the queen consort, officially became queen.

Elizabeth , who died at age 96, sat on the throne for a record 70 years. She was 27 when she was crowned in 1953 — an era-defining moment shown on the still-new medium of television for the first time. In contrast, Charles is a veteran royal who has traveled around the world many times representing the country.

Here’s everything that happened on the day:

Procession to Westminster Abbey

Public viewing areas along the route were open from 6 a.m. (1 a.m. ET). Space was limited, as many streets in and around the abbey were closed to traffic.

Early Saturday, the military units involved in planning and executing the event arrived at Waterloo Station and then moved across the city to help marshal the thousands of onlookers.

In the morning, the procession travelled from Buckingham Palace to the abbey in a journey lasting around 35 minutes. Charles and Camilla were in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, first used by Elizabeth in 2014 . The air-conditioned carriage, which weighs 3 metric tonnes (a little over 6,600 pounds) was pulled by six Windsor Grey horses, and is only ever used by the sovereign, occasionally alongside a visiting head of state.

Follow coronation ceremony live updates here

The gilded crown on the carriage roof was carved from oak from HMS Victory — Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 — and a piece of the mathematician Isaac Newton’s apple tree inscribed with his initials.

The service

The two-hour service began at 11 a.m. (7 a.m. ET). It was a somber and symbolic ceremony, largely unchanged in a millennium, in which Charles took on the role of sovereign.

The traditional Anglican anthem “ I Was Glad ” was sung as he entered, a piece based on Psalm 122 that has been used at this moment in coronations since at least 1626.

The coronation was presided over by Justin Welby , the archbishop of Canterbury , whose role has remained unchanged since 1066. 

Welby delivered a liturgy , or sermon, in which he invited the millions of Britons watching to “make their homage, in heart and voice, to their undoubted King, defender of all.” 

The service for the first time included languages from around the U.K., including a prayer in Welsh and a hymn sung in Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic. 

Two thousand guests packed the abbey, including first lady Jill Biden and Prince Harry , Charles’ younger son, who has an acrimonious relationship with his father and elder brother, Prince William , and the royal establishment. 

Charles was the 10th monarch to be crowned since America declared independence in 1776. No U.S. president has ever attended a British coronation, a tradition that continues.

The recognition and oath

After he entered the abbey, Welby called for recognition of the sovereign by the people — assembled dignitaries and senior royal household staff members then acclaim the king, pledging their homage, or loyalty.

Charles then took the coronation oath, a legal requirement since a law passed in 1689 compelled King William and Queen Mary to promise to maintain the Protestant faith. The same year, Parliament passed a law that bans any Catholic from taking the throne — a rule still in effect.

At Elizabeth’s coronation, the archbishop asked her whether she would govern the people of the U.K and the Commonwealth and uphold the Anglican faith. “All this I promise to do. The things which I have here before promised, I will perform, and keep. So help me God,” she replied.

The anointing

Then Charles was anointed, blessed and consecrated by Welby as he sat in the coronation chair, a relic first used in the coronation of King Edward II in 1308.

The process of anointing is inspired by the biblical anointing of King Solomon — it is a deeply religious moment, similar to a baptism. The oil was made with olives harvested from two groves from monasteries on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, where the Bible says Jesus prayed the day before his crucifixion.

But the moment was hidden from the millions watching around the world by a screen: Tradition holds that the only witnesses will be the king, the archbishop and God.

Charles took off his crimson robes and any jewelry and wore just a simple robe as the archbishop poured oil on his head, hands and chest. As he did this, Welby said: “So be you anointed, blessed and consecrated King over the Peoples, whom the Lord thy God hath given thee to rule and govern.”

Handel’s anthem “Zadok the Priest” played during the ancient ritual. Shakespeare referred to the symbolism of the process in “Richard II”: “Not all the water in the rough rude sea/Can wash the balm off from an anointed king.”

Not all monarchs revered it, however: Elizabeth I referred to the sacred oil as “grease” that “smelt ill,” according to George Gross , a theologian at King’s College London.

After Charles received the crown jewels, the orb and two scepters, Welby placed the St. Edward’s Crown on his head. The crown features a 4.9-pound solid gold frame complete with rubies, amethysts, sapphires, garnets, topazes and tourmaline gemstones. It was worn by Elizabeth during her coronation and has been refitted for her son.

At the end of the ceremony, Charles switched to the lighter Imperial State Crown for the procession back to the palace.

Gun salutes were fired from across Britain both at land and sea.

The reception

After the service, the procession took the king and queen back to Buckingham Palace in a different ceremonial carriage, the Gold State Coach, on the same route around Central London that Elizabeth’s body was taken during her funeral last year. 

Some 5,000 armed forces personnel from across Britain and the Commonwealth accompany the newly crowned king and queen. A further 1,200 members of the British armed forces will line the route, according to plans shared by Buckingham Palace and the British government.

The Gold State Coach, commissioned in 1760, was first used by George III to travel to the state opening of Parliament two years later. It weighs 4 metric tonnes (almost 9,000 pounds) and needs eight Windsor Grey horses to pull it, and it can manage no more than a walking pace.

Elizabeth used it on her coronation day in 1953. On that unseasonably cold June day, royal staff members strapped a hot water bottle under her seat. Queen Victoria, her great-great-grandmother, was not fond of the gold coach and did not use it in seven state openings of Parliament, the Royal Collection Trust said .

The balcony moment and flypast

Charles and Camilla headed to the Buckingham Palace garden for a reception.

They then appeared on the famous palace balcony alongside their pages of honor and other senior royals — including the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine and Princes George and Louis and Princess Charlotte.

The final crescendo of the day’s pomp and circumstance was the six-minute flypast of more than 60 aircraft from the Royal Air Force, the British army and the Royal Navy, followed by the Royal Air Force’s aerobatics team, the Red Arrows.

Among the aircraft were planes that have delivered aid to Ukraine and policed NATO airspace, as well as Spitfires, the famous planes that flew in the Battle of Britain in 1940.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Max Taylor is a senior desk editor for NBC News, based in London.

Prince Harry supported by uncle Charles Spencer at Invictus ceremony in London

The duke's father, king charles, hosted a garden party at the same time of the service.

Prince Harry is being supported by his uncle Charles Spencer as he leads a service marking the tenth anniversary of the Invictus Games in the coming moments. Also in attendance at the service was the late Princess Diana's sister Lady Jane Fellowes, and the Earl was seen arriving alongside Lady Jane with the pair sharing a smile.

Members of the Duke's extended family were also present including his cousins George McCorquodale, Ned Spencer and Louis Spencer, Viscount Althorp.

When the Duke arrived at St Paul's Cathedral, he was seen waving at cheering members of the crowd that had amassed. The royal wore a bleu suit which was adorned with several of his medals from his military service.

Harry was greeted by the Dean of St Paul’s, the Very Reverend Andrew Tremlett. Inside the landmark, 1,000 people had gathered for the ceremony including the Duke's lawyer, David Sherbourne, Mark Dyer, a former equerry to the King, and Ed Lane Fox, the royal's former private secretary.

Harry was clearly buoyed by the show of support from Charles, Lady Sarah and Lady Jane, and you can see his reaction to the trio in the sweet clip below.

Speaking to HELLO! about Prince Harry being at the service, David Wiseman, a former competitor in the Invictus Games said: " We wouldn't be here without Prince Harry would we, we wouldn't be here without his initial vision, without his drive, without his influence , without his ability to convene this international community of those who have served and continue to serve.

"And he's so passionate about serving that community, he's one of us, he's part of this community and we're incredibly proud to have him as part of it. We're delighted he's here to help us celebrate the past ten years and to look forward to the next ten years."

The service began with the hymn Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven, before the Dean of St Paul's read a short speech. Harry read from the Bible while Homeland  star Damian Lewis gave a reading of the poem 'Invictus'. A reading was also given by former Invictus competitor Michelle Turner, with an emotional extract coming from Michelle's daughter and following the reading, the Duke led a standing ovation.

An after-service for the event is due to be held in the crypt at St Paul's Cathedral. The Duke did not remain for the after-service, but ahead of his exit, he was seen shaking hands with those who had gathered.

The Duke of Sussex was not joined by other senior members of the royal family. Harry has been unable to see other members of the   royal family due to a "schedule" conflict , with King Charles hosting a garden party alongside the monarch's weekly meeting with the prime minister, Rishi Sunak. A source close to Harry said: "The Duke of course is understanding of his father's diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon."

The royal has not been joined by his wife, Meghan Markle , who has previously been at his side for Invictus-related events. However, the Duke and Duchess are due to reunite later in the week when they fly out to Nigeria with their trip beginning on Friday. During their time in the African country, the pair will tour various organisations.

HELLO!'s  royal editor, Emily Nash said: "To an outsider it may seem odd that they can't make time for a meeting, but the King is head of state and has his diary planned months in advance - so it wasn't a given that it would happen, with Harry only here for a couple of days. It will inevitably lead to speculation over the state of their relationship, which has come under pressure over the past few years."

The Duke arrived in the UK on Tuesday, where he took part in a panel discussion about the Invictus Games alongside former BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin and businessman Sir Keith Mills.

During the discussion, Harry said: "Sometimes you… look back and go 'Look at what we’ve done'. But also given the state of the world, there is so much more to do and I think a lot of uncertainty – but what we've created is a global community." When pressed on the future of the Games, the royal confirmed they would continue so long as they "serve their purpose".

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The Invictus Games were founded by the royal in 2014 and they act as a multi-sport event for injured or sick service personnel.

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Wwe king and queen of the ring 2024: date, start time, full match card, tv channel and live stream.

WWE will crown a new king and queen when they travel to Saudi Arabia later this month for Jeddah's Premium Live Event.  King of the Ring has been a WWE tradition since 1985 and some of the industry's greatest names have worn the crown over the years, including Bret Hart, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Kurt Angle and Edge.  But who will follow Xavier Woods and Zelina Vega in being this year's royal winners? 

Here is everything you need to know about WWE King and Queen of the Ring 2024.

What time does WWE King and Queen of the Ring start?

Date: Saturday, May 25 Time: 1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. GMT 

How to watch WWE King and Queen of the Ring 2024 

United States: Peacock , PPV Everywhere but the U.S.: WWE Network (Premium subscription), PPV

WWE King and Queen of the Ring will be live on Peacock (click here for more details) in the United States and on WWE Network in rest of the world. 

Where is WWE King and Queen of the Ring?

WWE King and Queen of the Ring takes place at the Jeddah Super Dome in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

WWE King and Queen of the Ring 2024 match card

• Becky Lynch vs. Liv Morgan for the Women's World Heavyweight Championship 
• Sami Zayn vs. Chad Gable vs. Bronson Reed for the Intercontinental Championship 
• King of the Ring final 
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Watch CBS News

King Charles' coronation will be very different from Queen Elizabeth's. Here's what the royals changed.

By Tucker Reals , Haley Ott

Updated on: May 6, 2023 / 5:37 AM EDT / CBS News

London  — King Charles told his advisors long before his own coronation ceremony that he "wanted them to start afresh," according to historian and CBS News royal contributor Amanda Foreman. "So, what we are going to see is a very, very different coronation" compared to the ceremony held for his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 1953.

So, what are the differences?

King Charles' "plus one"

Charles' wife Camilla, the Queen Consort , will be formally crowned alongside her husband during the May 6 coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey. Upon her coronation, she will drop the "consort" from her title and be known as Queen Camilla.

Prince Philip , the longtime husband of Queen Elizabeth , was never crowned, and was known throughout the queen's reign as her "liege lord."

While Queen Camilla will be crowned — specifically with Queen Mary's Crown from the royal family's extensive Crown Jewels collection — her role does not convey any political power, like Charles' mother had as the queen "regnant" and Britain's sovereign. That role and the power it conveys, though extremely limited under modern Britain's constitutional monarchy, lies entirely with Charles.

What he wears

King Charles will wear several historic garments for his actual coronation ceremony, including heavy ceremonial robes made of gold thread, but unlike his mother, underneath it all, Foreman said the king was "not going to wear a special outfit. He's going to wear his military uniform."

Queen Elizabeth, on the other hand, had a special Coronation Dress commissioned by a British designer.

According to the Royal Collection Trust , the designer "submitted nine different designs and the queen accepted the eighth, but suggested the addition of embroideries in various colours rather than all in silver." 

A smaller affair

King Charles' coronation will be a much smaller affair than his mother's. 

Approximately 2,000 guests have been invited , as opposed to the over 8,000 people who were invited to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Queen Elizabeth's ceremony lasted almost three hours, but King Charles' will last only two hours.

The coronation processions will differ in size, too. King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla will travel to Westminster Abbey, and then the king and Queen Camilla — with her new official title — will travel back to Buckingham Palace along on the same route, which takes approximately 40 minutes at the speed of a horse-drawn carriage. 

Queen Elizabeth's procession from Westminster Abbey back to the palace after her coronation took a much more circuitous route, with her waving and smiling to well-wishers for around five hours.

The coronation oath

Britain has changed a lot in the decades since Queen Elizabeth was crowned, with a majority of the country no longer describing themselves as Christian.

However, England legally remains a Christian nation, and the Church of England, also known as the Anglican Church, is the official religion, with the monarch serving as its titular head, known as the Defender of the Faith. The coronation ceremony itself is a Christian ritual.

In the 1990's, then-Prince Charles sparked controversy when he said he would be a defender of faith in general, rather than the Defender of the Faith. 

In his coronation oath, the king will give a nod to other religions, kneeling before the altar in Westminster Abbey and saying: "God of compassion and mercy whose Son was sent not to be served but to serve, give grace that I may find in thy service perfect freedom and in that freedom knowledge of thy truth. Grant that I may be a blessing to all thy children, of every faith and belief, that together we may discover the ways of gentleness and be led into the paths of peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."

Pledges of allegiance

Past coronations have included a long procession of British aristocrats lining up to vow loyalty and service to the new monarch. King Charles, however, has scrapped that portion of the ceremony, known as the "Homage of Peers." 

Instead, only Charles' first son and heir to the throne William, Prince of Wales, will kneel before his father and give a solemn oath, pledging his "loyalty to you and faith and truth I will bear unto you, as your liege man of life and limb."

The order of service will also include for the first time an invitation from the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, who will lead the religious ceremony, to "all those who desire," watching across Britain and the British Commonwealth, to pledge their allegiance by saying: "I swear that I will pay true allegiance to Your Majesty, and to your heirs and successors according to law. So help me God."

The so-called "Homage of the People," which the palace has stressed is entirely voluntary, will replace the traditional Homage of Peers. 

A spokesman for the archbishop's office said ahead of the ceremony, according to The Independent newspaper: "The Homage of the People is particularly exciting because that's brand new.

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Tucker Reals is cbsnews.com's foreign editor, based in the CBS News London bureau. He has worked for CBS News since 2006, prior to which he worked for The Associated Press in Washington D.C. and London.

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TikTok Reaches for the Constitution

In April, President Biden signed a bill forcing TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to either sell the platform or face a total ban. Now, the company is fighting back with a lawsuit . “For the first time in history, Congress has enacted a law that subjects a single, named speech platform to a permanent, nationwide ban,” the company said, in a lawsuit naming Attorney General Merrick Garland, adding that it “bars every American from participating in a unique online community with more than 1 billion people worldwide.”

TikTok has been defending itself on speech grounds for a while now, and was widely expected to do so in response to the federal bill. It also has to come up with something — the company was reportedly taken by surprise by the bill, even after it had been forced to invest billions of dollars in a program intended to separate parts of its operations in the United States from its parent company in China. TikTok’s claims pit speech rights against the government’s national-security concerns, which the company says are “speculative,” “analytically flawed,” and “conjectural.” It also makes the argument that the bill is, in fact, a de facto ban. A forced divestment would damage the app, reduce its functionality, appeal, and value, and, the company says, simply not be possible. “Precipitously moving all TikTok source code development from ByteDance to a new TikTok owner would be impossible as a technological matter,” the lawsuit says.

Some supporters of the bill have brushed aside criticism by insisting that it isn’t really a ban , just an attempt to regulate ownership. In rejecting this, TikTok actually cites its relationship to China. “The Chinese government clearly signaled that it would assert its export control powers with respect to any attempt to sever TikTok’s operations from ByteDance,” the lawsuit says, “and that any severance would leave TikTok without access to the recommendation engine that has created a unique style and community that cannot be replicated on any other platform today.” These are claims about which TikTok’s leadership are uniquely knowledgeable but also completely biased; whether TikTok can be rebuilt by an American buyer, or whether the Chinese government will actually block the sale, are reasonable questions about which the bill’s supporters are, in effect, speculating.

Where this lawsuit gets interesting — and sort of strange — is in how it talks about speech. It opens with an argument about protecting the speech of its users in a “unique online community.” While big social platforms have often positioned themselves as enablers of speech, and as broadly supportive of controversial speech, the notion that they’re actually vital to the preservation of free speech is a position most associated with their harshest (or at least angriest) critics, who have argued — mostly unsuccessfully , until recently — that getting banned on, say, YouTube or Twitter is a violation of their constitutional rights.

In court, social-media platforms have defended against such claims in a fairly straightforward way, by emphasizing that they’re private companies making decisions about their products. In public, though, platforms have been a bit more careful. Through years of promoting themselves as venues for speech and public discourse — as creators of the “global town square,” and other stretched metaphors — social platforms have fostered a sense among users that they have something like a right to post. This has come back to bite these companies in the ass in a variety of ways, most visibly through spectacles like the Twitter Files — and, I guess, Elon Musk’s acquisition of the platform in the first place — which framed internal moderation decisions in terms of speech rights and government control, and in public allegations from former president Trump that censorship on social media amounts to “rigging” the election.

For its part, TikTok didn’t engage much in this particular sort of free-speech mythmaking. By the time it was growing, the other social platforms were already under intense scrutiny for their handling of political speech. TikTok didn’t need to borrow civic language or promote democratic ideals to make its pitch to users — it just needed to keep recommending more videos . To position itself now as a steward of a vital platform for the speech of its users makes sense, given the circumstances, but it’s relatively new for the company. Instead, when criticized, the TikTok has tended to emphasize that most people use the app to post “authentic” content, just for fun .

Later in the lawsuit, though, TikTok makes a much clearer argument, but one that its users might find less than sympathetic, and which brings it in line with its peers, with whom it has been making similar legal arguments over the last year. From the lawsuit:

TikTok “is more than a passive receptacle or conduit for news, comment, and advertising” of others; TikTok Inc.’s “choice of material” to recommend or forbid “constitute[s] the exercise of editorial control and judgment” that is protected by the First Amendment.

Here, TikTok is citing a 1974 Supreme Court case that struck down a Florida “right to reply” law, which required newspapers to provide space for candidates to respond to coverage or criticism. In comparing itself to a publisher, TikTok is asserting its own right to free speech. The company goes on to emphasize the ways in which it literally publishes stuff:

TikTok Inc. uses the TikTok platform to create and share its own content about issues and current events, including, for example, its support for small businesses, Earth Day, and literacy and education. When TikTok Inc. does so, it is engaging in core speech protected by the First Amendment.

This is how TikTok supports its claim that the law is “obviously unconstitutional.” It doesn’t really align with TikTok as it’s popularly understood, or with the industry narrative about social media more broadly, as a space where users publish content and other users consume it, with occasional minimal interventions from platforms. But, again, platforms have often emphasized different concepts of “speech” in and out of court, depending on their audiences. What it does align with, sort of, is a legal strategy that TikTok, along with other social-media companies, have been using to defend themselves against state laws intended to prevent them from removing certain kinds of content, challenging they way they’ve operated since their inception. The Supreme Court is currently considering new laws passed in Texas and Florida, which challenge the platform’s rights to remove content they don’t want to carry. (The Texas law prohibits platforms from taking down content based on “viewpoint”; the Florida law fines platforms for banning political candidates, among other things; both were written and passed by conservative lawmakers who alleged bias by big tech companies.)

In its lawsuit, TikTok cites a recent Amicus brief filed by the government concerning the Florida law:

As the government itself has acknowledged, “[w]hen [social media] platforms decide which third-party content to present and how to present it, they engage in expressive activity protected by the First Amendment because they are creating expressive compilations of speech.”

Whether this matters much for the forced sale or ban remains to be seen (the government’s invocation of national security and espionage don’t bode particularly well for TikTok). But its lawsuit crystalizes a defense that every social-media platform is leaning on now, to somewhat different ends, whether they’re arguing their right to censor content, or for their right to exist: When it comes to speech, platforms are people, too.

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