King Charles III uses first TV speech to pay emotional tributes to Queen Elizabeth II and his family
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During King Charles III's first official televised address to the nation as sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II's eldest son took the opportunity to thank his "dear mama" for her lifetime of service – not only to the general public, but to their family too.
The king also spoke of the importance of togetherness and familial bonds as a whole, also taking the time to "send love" to his youngest son, Prince Harry, and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, who stepped down from their roles as senior working members of the Royal Family in 2020.
He also confirmed that Prince William – now heir to the throne – will be appointed Prince of Wales.
In a ten-minute address, King Charles also made it clear how important his wife of seventeen years, Camilla, Queen Consort, is to him – and how very meaningful her support will continue to be during this moment of transition.
“Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.”
His Majesty The King addresses the Nation and the Commonwealth. pic.twitter.com/xQXVW5PPQ2— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 9, 2022
Related: Queen Elizabeth II 1926-2022: Her life and reign in pictures
"I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla," the king said. "In recognition of her own loyal public service since our marriage seventeen years ago, she becomes my Queen Consort.
"I know she will bring to the demands of her new role the steadfast devotion to duty on which I have come to rely so much."
During the speech, it was also confirmed that Catherine, Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge, will become Princess of Wales (a title not used since the death of Diana, Princess of Wales) alongside Prince William's new appointment as Prince of Wales.
"As my heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which has meant so much to me," the king said. "He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades.
"Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty."
King Charles added: "With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground, where vital help can be given."
The monarch's youngest son, Prince Harry, was also referenced in his debut address, with the king saying: "I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan, as they continue to build their lives overseas."
King Charles also spoke at length about his mother's dedication during her 70 years as sovereign, and said he owes Queen Elizabeth II the most "heartfelt debt" for her love, teachings and support throughout his 73 years.
"Let us draw strength from the light of her example... To my darling mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late papa, I must simply say this – thank you, for your love and devotion to our family, and our family of nations.
"May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."
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