Prince Andrew to take on key role at late mum Queen Elizabeth II's funeral
16.09.2022 - 00:03
/ ok.co.uk
Prince Andrew will be taking on a key role during his late mum Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's funeral on Monday 19 September.The Duke of York, 62, will once again march behind the late sovereign's coffin next week, a duty he upheld on Wednesday 14 September when the casket was moved from Buckingham Palace's Bow room to Westminster Hall – where she is currently lying-in-state to ensure the public have the opportunity to pay their respects. He's also been allowed to keep a prominent role within the Royal Family since his brother, 73, ascended to the throne last week.
Andrew was a Counsellor of State during Queen Elizabeth II's reign and he will be keeping the significant role under King Charles' reign. Being a Counsellor of State means that Andrew can step in for the monarch and temporarily perform duties on his behalf is he is unable to "due to illness or absence abroad".
For all of the latest updates, sign up for OK!'s Royal newsletter. Dad-of-two Andrew will retain the role despite being stripped of his titles and taking a step back from Royal duties over recent years, due to his links with Jeffrey Epstein and his sex scandal with Virginia Roberts – which he settled out of court.
Andrew, along with Prince Harry, Prince William and Charles, held the position before Her Majesty passed away on 8 September. Under Charles' reign, Andrew, Harry, 37, William, 40, and Princess Beatrice, 34, will all be Counsellors of State.Those given the role is determined by who the top four people in the line of succession over the age of 21 are.
Queen Consort Camilla, 75, can also act in King Charles' absence. Mum-of-one Beatrice will now be authorised to carry out most of the official duties of the sovereign, including attending Privy
.