King Charles III and the Royal Family Deciding to Delay Public Engagements
King Charles III has now freed up his schedule.
Buckingham Palace announced that the royal family will be postponing public appearances following the announcement by U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of a general election on July 4.
In a statement obtained by NBC News on May 22, the Palace said, “Following the Prime Minister’s statement this afternoon calling a general election, the royal family will—in accordance with normal procedure—postpone engagements that may appear to divert attention or distract from the election campaign. Their Majesties send their sincere apologies to any of those who may be affected as a result.”
This upcoming general election marks the U.K.’s first in almost five years. For those curious about how they work, Parliament’s official website explains that these elections allow people to vote for their local Member of Parliament (MP).
“This person will represent a local area (constituency) in the House of Commons for up to five years,” the website explains. “There is a choice of several candidates in each constituency. Some will be the local candidates for national political parties. The candidate that receives the most votes becomes their MP.”
The website further states, “The political party that wins the most seats in the House of Commons at a general election usually forms the new government. Its leader becomes Prime Minister.”