The Queen reveals she has backed this royal to be her successor
As Queen Elizabeth II opened the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting overnight, Her Majesty has made history by revealing she'd like her son, Prince Charles, to succeed her as Head of the Commonwealth.
The Queen's address to fellow Commonwealth leaders was an historical moment, as it's the first time a monarch has ever referenced who they would prefer to see succeed them on the throne.
'It is my sincere wish that the Commonwealth will continue to offer stability and continuity for future generations, and will decide that one day The Prince of Wales should carry on the important work started by my father in 1949,' the Queen said.
'By continuing to treasure and reinvigorate our associations and activities, I believe we will secure a safer, more prosperous and sustainable world for those who follow us: a world where the Commonwealth's generosity of spirit can bring its gentle touch of healing and hope to all.'
The Queen has no designated successor as Commonwealth chief, and some have suggested Charles should not take over.
Despite her advocacy for Prince Charles, the Queen maintained she was not ready to step down any time soon.
'It remains a great pleasure and honour to serve you as Head of the Commonwealth and to observe, with pride and satisfaction, that this is a flourishing network,' she said.
'When I meet the young leaders of this century, I remember my own life-long commitment – made in South Africa in 1947 at the age of 21,' she added.
'As another birthday approaches this week, I am reminded of the extraordinary journey we have been on, and how much good has been achieved.'
This article originally appeared on New Idea.
