The British monarchy, led by Queen Elizabeth II, has evolved over centuries and now serves as a figurehead with limited power. The Queen’s duties include appointing officials and making public appearances, but the real power lies with the British Parliament.
The British monarchy is one of the oldest monarchies in the world, and while it has changed quite a bit in the intervening centuries, the British monarch is still one of the most recognizable world figures. As of 2013, Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state in Great Britain and the face of the country. You have authority over the courts, you are commander-in-chief of the armed forces and you are the head of the Church of England. As a result, Queen Elizabeth appoints ministers, judges, diplomats, bishops, governors and some military officers. She heads the executive branch of government in Great Britain and must officially pass a bill in Parliament to become law.
King John found his royal powers and prerogatives limp in 1215, with the signing of Magna Carta. The English had never been particularly fond of absolute monarchy, and the lords and nobles of the realm had, quite simply, had all they could take from the British monarch and his decrees. Royal power and royal duties have changed and declined over the centuries.
The upshot today is that while Queen Elizabeth is sovereign over her nation, the British Parliament holds the real power. The Queen may suggest or advise, but the days of her telling Parliament what will and will not pass are long gone. However, she opens the session of Parliament each year and makes a speech setting out the goals of her government for the following year.
One of the most obvious duties of the British monarch is wandering. This is the name for the tours, openings and appearances Queen Elizabeth makes throughout her country and wherever she visits. The queen often shakes hands with her subjects, accepts bouquets of flowers and gifts, and generally presents a public and charitable face, so her subjects can see her. Walkabout has greatly increased the popularity of the monarch.
Queen Elizabeth also visits other heads of state and/or government and is her country’s “public relations” person. Her visits help set the tone for relations between governments. You attend state dinners in your own country and in other countries, and Buckingham Palace is the site of most state functions.
The British monarch is more of a figurehead these days, but he can help push the country in various directions and is, therefore, still a major player in government.
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