The Queen’s first duty since Philip died was conducted yesterday. It is her first in-person royal duty following the death of her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh.
The monarch hosted a ceremony at Windsor Castle, where the Earl Peel formally stood down from position as Lord Chamberlain. During the private event, the Queen received her former royal aide’s wand and office insignia.
The Lord Chamberlain’s office is responsible for organising royal ceremonies.
The Royal Family is currently observing two weeks of mourning due to the duke’s death on Friday. His funeral is due to take place in the grounds of Windsor on Saturday. However, a royal official stated that members of the family would still continue “to undertake engagements appropriate to the circumstances”.
The Earl Peel announced his retirement as Lord Chamberlain last year, after more than 14 years in the role. His replacement Andrew Parker, a former MI5 chief, took up the position just over a week before Prince Philip died.
The official engagement has been recorded in the Court Circular, which is a daily list of events attended by the Queen and her family.
A Void in her Life
Although she lost her beloved husband of 73 years, and is only a week away from her 95th birthday, the Queen is carrying on with the job. She never really stopped, as on the day Prince Philip’s death was announced, she had to approve his funeral plans. These plans were made public the next day.
If she really wanted to, the Queen could have easily postponed yesterday’s proceedings until after the period of mourning ended. But that is not something she would do.
The Queen may have responsibilities, but she has earned the right to privacy and time to grieve with her family. However, she has a work ethic and commitment to duty and service which she always places above everything else.
Prince Philip’s death has “left a huge void” in the Queen’s life, but the family, and those close to her, are rallying round to support her.
Funeral Arrangements
The Earl Peel had overseen arrangements for the duke’s funeral, but his replacement Baron Parker, will be in overall charge. The Lord Chamberlain’s Office is tasked with overseeing the practical side of the day.
Due to the pandemic, the funeral will be a more low key event than what might have been expected. In line with current coronavirus rules, only 30 people will be able to attend, face masks will be worn inside the chapel, and social distancing will be adhered to.
However, everyone is mindful of giving Prince Philip the send off he would have wanted and for plans to reflect his wishes.
As part of a procession from the State Entrance of Windsor Castle to St George’s Chapel, his coffin will be carried in a modified Land Rover, which the duke helped to design himself. The vehicle will be followed by members of the Royal Family walking behind. The Queen will travel separately. Meanwhile, a bell will toll, and guns will be fired in salute.
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