How should I address members of the Royal Family?
For The King and Queen: ‘Your Majesty’ on the first occasion and ‘Sir’ or ‘Ma’am’ thereafter. For other female members of the family who hold the title Her Royal Highness: ‘Your Royal Highness’ on the first occasion and then ‘Ma’am’. For male members of the Royal Family holding the title His Royal Highness: ‘Your Royal Highness’ on the first occasion and ‘Sir’ thereafter.
Should I bow or curtsey when being introduced to a member of the Royal Family?
Bowing or curtseying are entirely optional.
Do I have to wear a hat and gloves when meeting a member of the Royal Family?
This is optional, although hats do tend to be worn on more formal occasions. If you are expected to wear a hat you will be told so.
How can I arrange a Royal Visit?
It is the Lieutenancy Office that liaises with Buckingham Palace, the Private Office of the prospective visitor and the host organisation.
Further information can be found on our Royal Visits page.
How long does the Lord-Lieutenant’s appointment last?
The appointment is not for a fixed period. A Lord-Lieutenant or Deputy Lieutenant serves until his or her 75th Birthday or unless they move residence beyond 7 miles out of the county boundary.
Can Ladies be appointed as Lord-Lieutenant?
Yes, there are a number of female Lord-Lieutenants in England and Wales.
How does one get appointed as a Lord-Lieutenant?
The Sovereign, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, appoints Lord-Lieutenants. The opinions of a wide range of citizens in the county are taken before the Prime Minister’s office advises The King on possible nominations.
How much is the Lord-Lieutenant paid?
Lord-Lieutenants and Deputy Lieutenants are not paid.
Who is eligible for appointment as a Lord-Lieutenant?
Any person who is resident in the county is eligible for appointment as Lord-Lieutenant.
Who and what are the Deputy Lieutenants?
The Lord-Lieutenant, with the non-disapproval of the Sovereign, appoints Deputy Lieutenants (DLs) to assist them in carrying out their duties for the Crown. The maximum number is laid down and relates to the population of the county.
How do I address the Lord-Lieutenant?
The correct form of address for the Lord-Lieutenant is:
- Written: Mr Mohammed Saddiq, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset.
- Salutation: Dear Lord-Lieutenant.
- In a speech: In the preamble the Lord-Lieutenant should be referred to as “My Lord-Lieutenant” A speech might begin “Lord-Lieutenant, Ladies and Gentlemen”.
- Conversation (on formal occasions): Lord-Lieutenant.
How can I nominate someone for an Honour?
The honours system recognises people of outstanding merit, and those who have committed themselves to service to the nation and to their communities. You can submit a nomination at any time.
Find out more about the honours process and how you can nominate someone for an award on our National Honours page.
How can I apply for, or nominate, an organisation for a King's Award?
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is awarded annually in November for outstanding achievement by groups who regularly volunteer their own time to enhance and improve the lives of others. Further information can be found on our King’s Award for Voluntary Service page.
The King’s Award for Enterprise is valid for 5 years and is given for outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the following categories: innovation, international trade, sustainable development, promoting opportunity through social mobility. Further information can be found on our King’s Award for Enterprise page.
How can I apply for a wedding anniversary or birthday greeting from the King?
HM The King sends congratulatory messages to those celebrating their 100th and 105th birthday and every year thereafter, and those celebrating their 60th, 65th and 70th wedding anniversaries and every year thereafter. Further information can be found on our Anniversaries page.
Where do I find out about invitations to Royal Garden Parties?
Information about invitations to Royal Garden Parties is available on our Royal Garden Parties page.
What is the role of the Lieutenancy in Citizenship Ceremonies and where can I find out more details about these?
Please visit Citizenship Ceremonies page for more information.
How may I get in touch with the Lord Lieutenant?
Visit our Contact us page for details on how to get in touch.