Queen Elizabeth II of England was renowned for her humility, simplicity, and grace, partly because she never abused her power to violate the laws of the land. But did you know that being a monarch comes with a host of truly unbelievable privileges that no one else possesses? These aren’t abuses of power; they are all explicitly outlined in the British Constitution.
The Crown’s Extraordinary Freedoms
- No Speed Limits for the Queen: As the monarch, you could theoretically drive slowly on the motorway or speed through city streets at lightning pace without breaking any laws. However, as noted, Queen Elizabeth never abused this particular privilege.
- No Driver’s License Required: Every
driver in the UK must hold a driving license, which is issued in the Queen’s name. Yet, the Queen herself did not need a license, nor did she have to undergo any standard driving lessons. Travel Anywhere Without a Passport: Even the US President needs a passport to travel abroad, but the British monarch does not. The Queen never held a passport throughout her life, yet she traveled extensively around the world. Exempt from Income Tax: Every citizen globally, including presidents, must pay income tax. However, according to the UK Constitution, the monarch is not required to do so. Immunity from Prosecution: Legally, no one can sue the British monarch in court. The Queen also had the right not to provide any evidence in court and could not be prosecuted. Ownership of All Swans on the River Thames: By royal prerogative, all unmarked swans on certain stretches of the River Thames belong to the Monarch. Ownership of Whales, Dolphins, and Sturgeons in UK Waters: The British monarch owns various marine animals in British-owned waters, including sturgeon, whales, and dolphins. According to Time magazine, this law has existed since 1324, dating back to King Edward II. Two Birthdays: Although Queen Elizabeth II’s official birth date was April 21st, she also had another “official” birthday typically celebrated on a Saturday in June (this was the date of her coronation at Buckingham Palace). Personal ATM: A private ATM was installed in the basement of Buckingham Palace. This special ATM was provided for the Royal Family by Coutts, one of Britain’s most prestigious banks. A Personal Poet Laureate: According to the Royal Family website, the Poet Laureate is a highly esteemed position. At the time of the Queen’s reign, this role was held by Carol Ann Duffy. Royal Assent to Legislation: The British monarch plays a crucial and necessary role in enacting any bill into UK law. After a bill has passed through both Houses of Parliament, it is sent to the Crown for approval, a process known as “Royal Assent.” Power to Appoint Members to the House of Lords: The monarch has the power to appoint members to the House of Lords; however, this is done “on the advice” of government ministers. Confers Knighthoods: While knights no longer gallop across the land in shining armor, the title of knighthood still exists and is conferred by the monarch personally. Today, knighthoods are bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation’s economy, arts, military, and other fields. Exempt from Freedom of Information Act: Information about the Royal Family is exempt from disclosure, even when requested by freedom of information advocacy groups. Power to Dismiss the Entire Australian Government: As the Head of State of Australia, the monarch holds certain powers within its government. In 1975, Governor-General John Kerr, then the Queen’s representative in Australia, dismissed Australian Prime Minister Gough Whitlam. Head of State for Numerous Other Nations: These nations include Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Grenada, Jamaica, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Solomon Islands, and Tuvalu. All these countries belong to the Commonwealth Realm. Head of a Religion: Queen Elizabeth II was the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, the first state religion established after King Henry VIII’s break from the Roman Catholic Church in the 16th century. Gives Money to the Elderly (Maundy Money): Maundy money is a special silver coin that the British monarch traditionally presents to pensioners at Anglican cathedrals annually during Easter. The number of recipients corresponds to the Queen’s age.
- Notably, Queen Elizabeth II was an exceptional driver, having served as an ambulance driver for the military during World War II at the age of 18. She was also the only female member of the Royal Family to serve in the armed forces during WWII.
- Despite this, Queen Elizabeth II voluntarily paid income tax since 1992.
- While the Queen’s “power only applies to certain stretches of the river and its surrounding tributaries,” states the official Royal Family website.
- Both of the Queen’s birthdays were celebrated with ceremonial cannon salutes.
- As the Queen’s Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy received £200 annually, along with a barrel of Canary wine. She held the position until 2019.
