How does the British monarchy work?
The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy, which means the monarch is head of state but has largely ceremonial powers. The government is run by the Prime Minister and Parliament, which make laws and decisions.
The monarch's role includes opening Parliament, giving royal assent to laws, appointing the Prime Minister and representing the country at home and abroad.
By convention, the monarch acts on the advice of government ministers and remains politically neutral. The monarch does not vote or express political opinions in public.
Royal duties
The monarch is also Head of the Armed Forces, Supreme Governor of the Church of England and head of the Commonwealth.
Members of the royal family carry out thousands of engagements each year, supporting charities and attending events.
The monarchy is funded partly through the Sovereign Grant, based on profits from the Crown Estate. Supporters say the monarchy provides stability and tourism, while critics argue it is undemocratic.
The line of succession is based on birth order. Since 2013, sons and daughters have equal rights to the throne.