Deeply aware of the duties and heavy responsibilities of sovereignty, says Britain's new King Charles III

As Charles III was formally proclaimed the King of Britain at the Accession Council ceremony on Saturday, he said that he was deeply aware of the duties and heavy responsibilities of sovereignty.

The 73-year-old head of state told the Accession Council of senior political and religious advisers that he "would strive to follow the inspiring example of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II".

Standing before the royal throne in St James Palace’s Throne Room, the new monarch spoke of the irreparable loss to himself, his family, the United



Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the whole world following the death of his mother.

“It is the greatest consolation to me to know the sympathy expressed by so many to me, my sister and brothers and that such overwhelming affection and support should be extended to our whole family in our loss,” he said in his first official speech after the proclamation.

“My mother’s reign was unequalled in its duration, its dedication and its devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life," King Charles III said during his speech.