Queen To Miss UK Parliament Opening For First Time Since 1963
NDTV
Queen Elizabeth II usually presides over the pomp-filled event and reads out her government's legislative programme from a gilded throne in the House of Lords.
Head of state Queen Elizabeth II will miss Tuesday's ceremonial opening of the UK parliament for the first time in nearly 60 years, handing the duty to her heir Prince Charles in a clear sign of the looming transition of power.
The 96-year-old monarch usually presides over the pomp-filled event and reads out her government's legislative programme from a gilded throne in the House of Lords.
But Buckingham Palace said late Monday she would skip the annual showpiece on medical advice, making the decision "reluctantly" as she continues to experience "episodic mobility problems".
It is the latest in a string of cancelled public appearances caused by health problems and old age indicating her record-breaking 70-year reign is drawing to a close.
