Queen Elizabeth II Opens Parliament In First Appearance Since Death Of Prince Philip

Queen Elizabeth II made her first official engagement outside of Windsor Castle since the death of her husband Prince Philip. The Queen attended the State Opening of Parliament in Westminster on Tuesday.

She followed the imperial state crown along the royal gallery; escorted by her son Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, and her daughter-in-law Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

She wore a lavender day dress and matching hat instead of a ceremonial dress and crown. She sat alone on a throne in the House of Lords. The Imperial State Crown, signifying the regalia of the Head of State, was placed on a table next to her. Camilla and Charles sat to her left.

The State Opening of Parliament sees the Sovereign, as head of state, outline the main legislation that the serving U.K. Government wishes to introduce over the coming months. The Queen said in her speech that the main priority is to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.