Queen Elizabeth II, 96, has been suffering from “episodic movement issues” and has had to cancel several engagements this year. Instead, Prince Charles will read the Queen’s address on her behalf.

Read the statement of Buckingham Palace, “The Queen continues to experience episodic mobility problems, and in consultation with her doctors has reluctantly decided that she will not attend the State Opening of Parliament.”

Added, “At Her Majesty’s request, and with the agreement of the relevant authorities, the Prince of Wales will read the Queen’s speech on Her Majesty’s behalf, with the Duke of Cambridge also in attendance.”

The statement continues: “The Queen had to sign a new letter patent to allow Prince Charles to read her speech at the State Opening tomorrow. He is doing so as a Counsellor of State,” added, “Prince William is joining him as two Counsellor of State are required to perform any of the Queen’s constitutional duties.”

Prince William will be attending the State Opening of Parliament for the first time.

The Queen is anticipated to continue with the remainder of her scheduled activities at Windsor Castle this week, therefore the State Opening of Parliament address is considered to be the sole constitutional responsibility she will delegate to the Counsellor of States.

This cancellation comes after Elizabeth skipped a number of Easter engagements, including the Maundy Service, and announced that she will not be holding royal garden parties this year.

So far this year, she’s only attended one public event outside of her royal residences: late Prince Philip’s Thanksgiving ceremony.

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