What is a constitutional monarchy?

A constitutional monarchy is a system in which a king or queen is head of state. Their powers are limited by law and convention. Elected politicians make the real decisions. The UK is a constitutional monarchy: the monarch reigns but does not rule, acting on the advice of the government.

The UK's constitutional monarchy developed over centuries. The Bill of Rights of 1689 limited the Crown's powers and established Parliament's supremacy. Since then the monarch's role has become largely ceremonial and symbolic. Many powers still exist on paper, such as appointing the Prime Minister and giving Royal Assent, but they are used on ministers' advice. This change was gradual. Convention and precedent guide how those powers are used.

The monarch opens Parliament each session with the King's Speech, written by the government. They hold a weekly private audience with the Prime Minister and are head of the armed forces, the Church of England and the Commonwealth. The monarch is expected to stay politically neutral and does not vote. The monarch has the right to be consulted, to encourage and to warn ministers.

Other constitutional monarchies include Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Japan and several Commonwealth realms such as Canada and Australia. Supporters say the monarchy provides continuity, national unity and soft power. Republicans argue an unelected head of state is undemocratic and the costs of the Royal Family are too high. Polls show most Britons still support the monarchy, though younger people are less keen.