Later today, the King will address the nation, as he has annually since he acceded the throne in September 2022. This year’s is expected not only to be the most eagerly anticipated and arguably momentous speech that Charles has delivered, but also probably since his mother attempted to make some sense of the chaotic, grief-stricken events of 1997. The King will undoubtedly address his own health struggles, and almost certainly refer to those of his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales, as well. And then there are the issues of global conflict, a new prime minister and government, and, for light relief, his continued estrangement from his troublesome younger son.
At their best, the royals can be a force for national unity and timeless values
In previous eras, the monarch’s speech would be the unmissable highlight of the day, with its conclusion being the signal for present-opening and Christmas festivities to begin in earnest.
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