Historic moment Charles delivers Queen's Speech

DEEP in thought, a sombre Prince Charles glances reflectively at his mother's crown...all too aware of her almost unprecedented absence as he steps in to perform the State Opening of Parliament.

- Richard Palmer

It was a historic moment, ripe in poignancy too, as the heir to the throne took the Queen's place for one of her most important constitutional responsibilities.

For the Royal Family and the country as a whole, yesterday's occasion was also the biggest public sign to date that the 96-year-old monarch is paving the way for her eldest son's reign in “Operation Transition” which has quietly been under way for some years.

So Prince Charles and his own elder son Prince William took centre stage for the first time, giving them - and the watching nation - a glimpse of the future of the monarchy. Yet the presence of the Queen's Imperial State Crown, positioned majestically on a cushion on the dias, was a timely reminder that she still rules as head of state.

For 73-year-old Charles, there was an added emotional significance that perhaps showed through in his face - he was seated on the Consort's Throne which his late father Prince Philip had used at State Openings.

Buckingham Palace officials had thought the Queen's throne would be there, unused in a symbolic gesture, but it was removed.