King Charles and Queen Camilla celebrate 25th anniversary of Scottish Parliament | Royal | News

King Charles and Queen Camilla attended a celebration marking the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh today, September 28.

King Charles, 75, who has been undergoing cancer treatment since February, addressed the chamber and met “local heroes” who have made significant contributions to their community.

On their arrival at Queensberry House, the King and Queen, 77, were met by the Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh, the Presiding Officer and Deputy Presiding Officers.

Their Majesties proceeded to the Garden Lobby, where they met the First Minister of Scotland, the Rt Hon John Swinney MSP, and other Scottish Party Leaders.

The Mace and Crown of Scotland was later carried into the Chamber as part of a procession to a fanfare sounded by musicians from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

Opening remarks were given by the Presiding Officer before His Majesty addressed the Chamber to formally celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament.

The First Minister was then joined by other Scottish Party Leaders in giving speeches to the Chamber.

Performances by the charity Sistema Scotland, Còisir Alba singers and musician Calum McIlroy were interspersed throughout the session to reflect Scotland’s rich musical heritage and talent.

After leaving the Chamber, the King and Queen met local people nominated by MSPs for their extraordinary contribution to their communities.

The reception took place in the Main Hall, where the King and Queen signed the visitor’s book before departing.

Young people from across Scotland formed a Guard of Honour outside Parliament, lining part of their Majesties’ route to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The King, as Prince of Wales, attended the official opening of the Scottish Parliament with the Late Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh in 1999.

As well as being present for the Parliament opening in July 1999, King Charles also attended the 20th anniversary celebrations in 2019 and both the King and Queen attended the opening ceremony in 2021.

Their Majesties’ most recent visit was in 2022, where they attended the motion of condolence for the late Queen.

Today’s event comes amid Prince Harry returning to the UK this weekend to attend the WellChild Awards in London on Monday.

However, sources say the Duke, 40, is unlikely to meet with his father, King Charles, due to his very busy schedule.

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