Queen set to open UK parliament

The Queen is set to make a rare public appearance next week after pulling out of the royal garden party season in her platinum jubilee year.

She is due to attend the state opening of parliament and set out the UK government’s proposed legislation on Tuesday. However, a Buckingham Palace spokesman told Hello! that although she plans to attend, a final decision will not be known until the day.

The news comes after it was confirmed the Queen would miss all of the palace garden parties. Buckingham Palace did not give a reason, but they are the latest in a series of events the 96-year-old has stepped away from amid ailing health and mobility issues.

While she was recently pictured at events without her walking cane, The Sun reported that the four garden parties would require the Queen to stand for more than an hour as she walks to greet guests.

“Her Majesty The Queen will be represented by other members of the Royal Family at this year’s Garden Parties, with details on attendance to be confirmed in due course,” a palace statement said.

Palace aides are understood to be “pacing” the Queen before her platinum jubilee celebrations in June.