Test Your Knowledge of the British Monarchy

The Constitutional Monarchy of the United Kingdom

• The monarchy of the United Kingdom is a constitutional form of government where a hereditary sovereign reigns as the head of state of the United Kingdom, the Crown Dependencies, and the British Overseas Territories.

• The current monarch is King Charles III, who ascended the throne on 8 September 2022, upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

• The monarch and their immediate family undertake various official, ceremonial, diplomatic, and representational duties, but they are limited to non-partisan functions.

• The monarch is the Head of the British Armed Forces and can comment on draft laws that directly affect the monarchy.

• The ultimate executive authority over the government is still formally through the royal prerogative, but it is limited to functions such as bestowing honors and appointing the prime minister, which are performed in a non-partisan manner.

• The UK Government called the monarchy "a unique soft power and diplomatic asset." The British monarchy has promoted British interests and values, increased tourism, and promoted charities.

• The British monarchy traces its origins from the petty kingdoms of Anglo-Saxon England and early medieval Scotland, which consolidated into the kingdoms of England and Scotland by the 10th century.

• The monarch's role as a constitutional monarch is largely limited to non-partisan functions, such as granting honors.

• The sovereign's role as a constitutional monarch is largely limited to non-partisan functions, such as granting honors.

• The monarch's image is used to signify British sovereignty and government authority, and the monarch takes little direct part in government.

• The monarch exercises the "prerogative of mercy", which is used to pardon convicted offenders or reduce sentences.

• The sovereign is personally immune from criminal prosecution or arrest, as well as from civil actions, and their property is not subject to execution or foreclosure.Exemptions granted to sovereign property

• Sovereign property is exempt from anti-discrimination legislation.

• Sovereign property is exempt from workers' rights legislation.

• Sovereign property is exempt from health and safety legislation.

• Sovereign property is exempt from pensions legislation.

• Sovereign property is exempt from numerous taxes.

• Environmental inspectors cannot enter sovereign property without permission.

• Sovereign property is subject to the laws of the country it is located in.

• Sovereign property is owned by the ruling monarch or state.

• Sovereign property includes palaces, castles, and other historical landmarks.

• Sovereign property is used for official state functions and residences.

• Sovereign property is often open to the public for tours and events.

• Sovereign property is protected by state security.