King Charles III is officially proclaimed king

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By stefan armitage

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Charles III has officially been proclaimed as king.

The occasion took place on Saturday (September 10), and saw the Accession Council - which consists of members of the Royal Family, the UK prime minister, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and senior politicians - assemble at the Throne Room in St James's Palace to officially proclaim Charles as the new king.

Following the centuries-old tradition, Prince Charles Philip Arthur George was officially proclaimed as King Charles III.

The event took place at St James's Palace, as it is recognized as the official residence of the sovereign.

Speaking at the ceremony, King Charles III made it clear that he is fully aware of his duties, saying: "I am deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of Sovereignty which have now passed to me.

"In taking up these responsibilities, I shall strive to follow the inspiring example I have been set in upholding constitutional government and to seek the peace, harmony and prosperity of the peoples of these Islands and of the Commonwealth Realms and Territories throughout the world."

He also once again honored his late mother, saying: "To all of us as a family, as to this kingdom and the wider family of nations of which it is a part, my mother gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service.

"My mother’s reign was unequaled in its duration, its dedication, and its devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life."

The new king also honored his wife, the new Queen Consort, saying: "I am profoundly encouraged by the constant support of my beloved wife."

Clarence House revealed that today's Accession Council ceremony was the first time that the tradition was ever broadcast on television.

Per the Palace's official explanation of the event, it said that "The Accession Council, attended by Privy Councillors, is divided into two parts.

"In Part I, the Privy Council, without The King present, will proclaim the Sovereign, and formally approve various consequential Orders, including the arrangements for the Proclamation.

"Part II, is the holding by The King of His Majesty’s first Privy Council.

"The King will make his Declaration and read and sign an oath to uphold the security of the Church in Scotland and approve Orders in Council which facilitate continuity of government."

Penny Mordaunt read the draft orders, as King Charles III approved each one.

Following the signing of the oath, The Garter King of Arms took to the balcony above Friary Court and delivered the first and Principal Proclamation of the new king.

Members of the public then joined to sing the national anthem, 'God Save The King'.

Featured image credit: BBC