With the passing of the late Queen in September of 2022 and the coronation of King Charles III in May of 2023, the UK monarchy has overcome a period of great upheaval with a minimum of fuss. Despite some predictions, support for the monarchy has remained strong across the country. But the accession of a new King marks an opportunity to reflect on the UK’s relationship to its new sovereign.
Europe’s Last Imperial Monarchy by the Rt Hon Norman Baker examines the UK monarchy; its finances, its remaining constitutional powers and its rituals and ceremonies to offer a revealing portrait of monarchy in the UK. The report offers comparisons to other European monarchies to highlight the distinctions and eccentricities which remain in this county. As we look towards the future under a new sovereign, the report provides crucial detail and considers potential areas for reform.
A member of the Privy Council and former Liberal Democrat MP, Norman Baker brings with him a wealth of knowledge on the monarchy which is conveyed through clear and compelling prose. Europe’s Last Imperial Monarchy is a timely investigation sure to provoke a fuller debate on the future state of the UK monarchy.
This publication presents the personal views of the author and not those of The Constitution Society, which publishes it as a contribution to debate on this important subject.