Matter of succession The questions to be resolved in deciding the next Head of the Commonwealth

QWhat is the Commonwealth and what does it do?

AIt association is a voluntary of 53 member countries. It is made up of 2.4billion people. Leaders of the Commonwealth meet every two years at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), where they discuss issues of mutual concern and agree on collective policies and initiatives.

QWhat is the Queen’s relationship with the Commonwealth?

AThe Queen is head of the Commonwealth, a symbolic role.

She holds no formal powers over the Commonwealth, but takes the role seriously.

QWhy is succession an issue?

AAlthough the Queen took over from her father, George VI, the post is not a hereditary position. It will not automatically pass on to the Prince of Wales when he becomes king, but it will be up to the leaders of member states to decide what to do with the role.

QHow is the position decided?

ANo formal process has yet been outlined. But the Commonwealth will need to formalise the process to avoid the debate for future generations.

QWhy is the succession controversial?

AOn one side, some argue that modern day attitudes to the former Empire mean Britain must be careful in assuming it will naturally lead the Commonwealth indefinitely. On the other, some believe the Commonwealth exists because of the dedication of the Queen, and the role of the British monarchy should continue to be honoured.

QWho else could take the role?

AThis is unclear. Anyone but the Prince of Wales would require a drastic change in the role of the Head of the Commonwealth.