Prince Charles & Duchess Camilla Accompany Queen Elizabeth In Her First Royal Engagement Since Prince Philip's Death
On May 11, Queen Elizabeth II joined Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla at the State Opening of Parliament, marking her first royal outing since the death of her husband Prince Philip, who died on April 9.
While there, she gave a 10-minute speech — written by the government — that covers their upcoming agenda. Though the event is usually a grand affair, things were toned down this year, as the matriarch arrived in a car instead of a carriage.
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She also wore an everyday dress instead of any regal attire.
Many expected the Queen to be accompanied by Charles since it was reported that he was going to fill in for his late father, who used to be by her side at royal events.
A source told The Sun her eldest son will now have "a more significant and active role" within the family.
"It is a clear signal that the Queen does not want the crown to skip a generation and that Prince Charles will start taking on an even bigger role in royal life," the source explained.
“There will be a visible show of support for the Queen from senior members of the family at future events, and the opening of Parliament is no exception," the source shared last month. "The Queen has been incredibly stoic throughout the last few weeks, but the family are determined to rally round and support her."
"Charles will be at the forefront of those efforts as heir," the source declared.
Before Prince Philip passed, he reportedly had a "heartfelt" discussion with Charles, asking him to look after Elizabeth, in addition to discussing details as to how he should help lead the royal family.
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Though Charles is next in line for the throne, his mother has no desire to give up the spot anytime soon.
"She understands that she has a job to do, and [Philip] would have wanted her to crack on. She did do so when he retired from public life," a former royal aide spilled to PEOPLE. "She will never abdicate because of duty and honor and public service is so deep in her, as it was for him."
