Queen Elizabeth II will be represented by her son Prince Charles at the annual opening of Parliament on Tuesday.
Buckingham Palace said on the eve of the ceremony that she still suffers from mobility problems at times and, in consultation with her doctors, will not attend the traditional appointment at the beginning of the new session.
In recent months, the now 96-year-old monarch has been represented more and more often by family members and almost only held appointments directly at Windsor Castle.
During the state opening, the monarch usually reads the government statement of the respective prime minister in what is known as the Queen's Speech.
In fact, Queen Elizabeth II is not involved in government business.
Members of Parliament and Lords gather together for the declaration in the House of Lords, which is equipped with a throne.
Surprising cancellation
In addition to the heir to the throne Prince Charles (73), who is now reading the speech instead of the Queen, Prince William (39) should also be present at the appointment on Tuesday, the palace said.
The Queen has only missed the opening of Parliament twice in her 70-year reign – each time because she was pregnant, the last time almost 60 years ago.
A palace spokesman said at the end of last week that the monarch intended to read the speech personally.
The opening of the new session is accompanied by great pomp.
In 2020 the ceremony was canceled due to the corona pandemic, last year it took place on a smaller scale.
Since 2016, the Queen has used the elevator instead of the stairs when visiting Parliament.
Most recently, Elizabeth II no longer wore the heavy crown and state robes, but a hat and costume.