King Charles held a private audience with Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, inside the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Their meeting formed part of the King’s regular constitutional duties, with discussions expected to focus on matters affecting Scotland following a significant period of parliamentary activity, including the recent opening of the Scottish Parliament’s new session, where both men also met alongside senior political leaders.
At the meeting, he said: “As Presiding Officer I will be bold, innovative and imaginative and will work in the interests of all Members.
“Scotland needs a Parliament that is vibrant, relevant and trusted.
I will play my part in delivering that.”
Each summer, the monarch spends several days in Scotland celebrating Scottish communities, culture and achievement through investitures.
He officially launched Royal Week in Scotland with a centuries-old tradition and modern state business with a busy schedule of engagements in Edinburgh from his official Scottish residence, the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Shortly after arriving by helicopter, the monarch was welcomed with a Royal Salute and inspected a guard of honour formed by Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Scotland, before taking part in the historic Ceremony of the Keys in the palace gardens.
During the annual tradition, Edinburgh’s Lord Provost presented the Keys to the City to the King, who immediately returned them for safekeeping.
2026-07-01 02:45:00
