Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

The Counsellors of State Bill - Clause 1 - Addition of the Earl of Wessex and Princess Royal as Counsellors of State

01 December 2022 · 7 other contributors

Opened by Oliver Dowden Con Hertsmere

Parliamentary Procedure

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Oliver Dowden raised concerns about the counsellors of state bill - clause 1 - addition of the earl of wessex and princess royal as counsellors of state in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The Counsellors of State Bill proposes adding the Earl of Wessex and the Princess Royal as Counsellors of State for life.
  • This amendment follows a precedent set by Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 when she added her mother as a Counsellor of State.
  • The Bill aims to ensure continuity in the monarchy's constitutional role by providing experienced individuals to delegate royal functions in case of the monarch's absence or incapacity.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Oliver Dowden Con Hertsmere

The Counsellors of State Bill aims to ensure continuity in how the monarchy fulfils its core constitutional role by adding His Royal Highness the Earl of Wessex and Forfar, and Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal as additional Counsellors of State for life. This amendment follows precedent set by Queen Elizabeth II's request to add her mother as a Counsellor of State in 1953. The Bill is designed to address potential contingencies where royal functions must be delegated due to the monarch's absence or incapacity, and ensures that there are experienced individuals ready to perform these duties.

Other contributors (7)
  • Angela Rayner Lab Ashton-under-Lyne

    Supports the Bill as it provides a practical solution by expanding the number of Counsellors of State to ensure flexibility in who can formally represent His Majesty. This measure is necessary due to unforeseen circumstances and ensures that working royals are appointed when needed.

  • Michael Ellis

    Strongly supports the Bill as it follows long-established precedent set by Queen Elizabeth II's request in 1953. It provides His Majesty with more options to appoint Counsellors of State, ensuring smooth operation and preventing delays due to the monarch's absence or inability to perform functions.

  • Brendan O'Hara SNP Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber

    The Bill is seen as a necessary but temporary solution until more formalised methods are established. It addresses the limitations of current regulations by appointing new Counsellors of State.

  • Philip Dunne

    Supports the Bill for its promptness and appropriateness given His Majesty's recent accession to the throne. Emphasises that both the Earl of Wessex and the Princess Royal are experienced in this role and fully committed.

  • Angela Rayner Lab Ashton-under-Lyne

    Acknowledges the Bill's purpose to ensure Counsellors of State are available when needed. Recognises the work of Michael Ellis and pays tribute to the new appointees.

  • Nigel Evans

    Intervenes humorously, referring to the consensus and rapport between Members during the debate.

  • Alex Burghart Con Brentwood and Ongar

    Closes the debate by emphasising its concise nature and widespread support. Acknowledges the Bill's necessity in providing resilience to constitutional arrangements.

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