British monarchy

:This article describes the British monarchy from the perspective of the United Kingdom. In the other Commonwealth Realms, the constitutional role of the monarchy is identical, but the historical and cultural significance may differ.

Commonwealth role

The Sovereign is the monarch not only of the United Kingdom, but also of several other Commonwealth Realms. Though his or her constitutional powers in each realm are virtually identical to those held in the United Kingdom, the monarch does not play an active political or ceremonial role as head of state in these countries. Instead, day-to-day functions are performed by the Governor-General, who serves as the monarch's representative. In each realm, the Sovereign and Governor-General act solely on the advice of the local Prime Minister and Cabinet. Hence, the Government of the United Kingdom does not interfere with the governance of Commonwealth realms.

Related Topics:
Commonwealth Realm - Governor-General

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Formerly, every member of the Commonwealth of Nations was a Commonwealth Realm. However, when India became a republic in 1950, it was decided that it should be permitted to remain in the Commonwealth, even though the Sovereign was not its head of state. It was nevertheless decided that the British monarch would be acknowledged as "Head of the Commonwealth" in all Commonwealth member states, whether realms or not. The position is purely ceremonial, and is not accompanied by political power.

Related Topics:
Commonwealth of Nations - India - 1950

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