The Queen has become the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne. In a written message to the nation, she expressed her 'sincere wish' that the Duchess of Cornwall will be known as Queen Consort when the Prince of Wales becomes King.
The announcement ends years of controversy over Camilla's future title. The Queen, 95, said: 'When, in the fullness of time, my son Charles becomes King, I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me; and it is my sincere wish that, when that time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service.'
Royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell said Buckingham Palace will be 'monitoring' public reaction to the announcement. He noted that Camilla's path to acceptance has not been easy, with many blaming her for the breakdown of Charles' first marriage to Diana, Princess of Wales.
Clarence House said Charles and Camilla were 'touched and honoured' by the Queen's gesture. The Prince of Wales will make his own public declaration on Sunday celebrating his mother's Jubilee.
The Queen spent Accession Day privately at Sandringham, remembering her father George VI and her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh. National celebrations will take place during a four-day bank holiday weekend from June 2-5.
