Who is Camilla, the British Queen Consort?
Camilla Parker Bowles will also be crowned at the coronation ceremony of her husband, King Charles III, at Westminster Abbey in London on Saturday (6th). The monarch is no longer called “Queen Consort” and only “Queen”.
The former Duchess of Cornwall, who has been married to the monarch since 2005, was given the title of Queen Consort following the death of Elizabeth II last year.
The title of Queen Consort is given to the wife of the reigning King. The concept differs from the title of Queen in the case of Elizabeth II which is intended for those born into the royal family and in the line of succession to the throne.
A queen consort theoretically has the same social position and status as her spouse. However, historically it did not have the same political powers.
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Since April, however, the Briton has only been officially referred to as “Queen Camilla”, without “Consort”. However, the change is a matter of nomenclature only and does not affect Charles’ wife’s official title or duties.
The BBC interviewed a royal official who explained on condition of anonymity that it was early in the reign of Charles III. It made sense to use the title “Queen Consort” to distinguish Camilla from her predecessor and avoid confusion. However, by the time of the coronation, enough time had elapsed since Elizabeth II’s death that it would be appropriate simply to call the new monarch “Queen”.
1 of 1 Britain’s then Prince Charles and Camilla leave St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, southern England, after the prayer and dedication service following their wedding April 9, 2005. —Photo: Portal /Toby Melville Britain’s then Prince Charles and Camilla leave St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, southern England, after the prayer and dedication service following their wedding April 9, 2005. —PHOTO: Portal /Toby Melville
approval of Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth II was already preparing for this transition. In a message to the nation in February 2022, the monarch said she wanted Camilla to be referred to as “Queen Consort” when Charles becomes king.
“It is my sincere wish that when the time comes, Camilla will be known as the ‘Queen Consort’ as she continues in her own faithful ministry,” Elizabeth II said on the eve of celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of her reign.
Camilla was thought to be Prince Charles’ mistress during his marriage to Princess Diana and was therefore unloved by the public. But years later she saw her approval ratings rise thanks to her continued efforts to create a positive image and also good relationships with some press vehicles. Still, she’s less popular than “darlings” of public opinion in the royal family, like William and Kate.