Study topic
The monarchy and the Crown
The UK is a constitutional monarchy. The test asks what the monarch does — and, just as importantly, what they do not do.
Key facts to remember
- ◆ The monarch is the head of state but does not run the government.
- ◆ The monarch must remain politically neutral.
- ◆ The monarch opens each new session of Parliament.
- ◆ The monarch is also Head of the Commonwealth and of the Church of England.
- ◆ New laws receive Royal Assent before they come into force.