City Research Online

Abstract

The death of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III may mark a renewal of the constitutional identity of the United Kingdom. This Working Paper considers the role of the monarch in the modern constitution. It argues that the hereditary head of state provides two normatively desirable functions: first, the monarchy means that there is a symbolic separation of power between de facto and de jure power, and spiritual power. Secondly, the monarch provides a silent accountability function through the regular meetings with the Prime Minister. The article concludes by arguing that, if the United Kingdom ever were to transition to a republic, then it should aim to replicate these functions of the monarchy in the new position of head of state.

Publication Type:	Monograph (Working Paper)
Additional Information:	Originally published by the Democracy Institute: https://democracyinstitute.ceu.edu/
Publisher Keywords:	Monarchy, constitutionalism, separation of powers, accountability
Subjects:	J Political Science > JN Political institutions (Europe)
Departments:	The City Law School The City Law School > Academic Programmes
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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