- King Charles holds a pivotal constitutional role in appointing a new prime minister, a personal prerogative that requires him to select an individual capable of commanding the confidence of the House of Commons, typically the leader of the party with an overall majority.
- Sir Keir Starmer has informed King Charles of his decision to resign as Labour leader and prime minister, and will formally tender his resignation in person before the monarch invites his successor to form a new government.
- The traditional 'kissing hands' ceremony for an incoming prime minister is now a symbolic handshake, with the actual swearing-in and formal kissing of hands typically taking place later at a Privy Council meeting.
- During his premiership, Sir Keir Starmer, appointed by Charles in July 2024, maintained a warm rapport with the King, engaging in weekly private audiences to discuss government matters, where the monarch could advise and warn while remaining politically neutral.
- Despite his past advocacy for abolishing the monarchy, Sir Keir praised King Charles's environmental and social commitments.
IN FULL
