The numbers
Penny Mordaunt made headlines during the coronation of King Charles on May 6, 2023, at Westminster Abbey, where she carried the Sword of State, a ceremonial weapon weighing 8 lbs and measuring 4 ft in length. This moment marked a significant milestone, as Mordaunt became the first woman to hold the role of Lord President of the Privy Council, further solidifying her place in British political history.
In a statement reflecting on her experience, Mordaunt remarked, “I was clearly the lightning rod on the day for attention. Very embarrassing.” Her role in the coronation not only garnered her widespread recognition but also made her a social media sensation, with many praising her poise and composure during the event.
Following the coronation, Mordaunt received a letter from a member of the royal family, acknowledging her contribution to the historic ceremony. Her dress, designed by Safiyaa, featured a striking golden fern motif, which complemented the grandeur of the occasion.
Beyond her ceremonial duties, Mordaunt has been vocal about pressing issues facing the UK, particularly regarding defence spending. She suggested that the government would only consider increasing defence budgets in response to significant casualties among British soldiers. Currently, defence spending stands at 2.3% of GDP, with projections indicating it could rise to 3.5% by 2035.
A recent poll revealed that 66% of the British public believes there should be higher defence spending, reflecting growing concerns over national security and military preparedness. Mordaunt criticized the government’s current defence spending plans, stating they are “out of kilter with reality,” emphasizing the need for a more robust approach to defence.
In a historical context, the coronation of King Charles follows a lineage of royal ceremonies, with the Sword of State being a traditional symbol of authority. The sword has a storied past, and its use in the coronation underscores the continuity of the monarchy in British society.
As Mordaunt continues to navigate her political career, observers are keen to see how her visibility from the coronation will influence her future roles and initiatives within the government. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further responsibilities she may undertake in the wake of her prominent appearance at the coronation.
In addition to her political engagements, Mordaunt’s connection to the royal family has been highlighted by her remarks on the late Prince Philip, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2013 and passed away in April 2021 at the age of 96. Her reflections on his legacy and the impact of his passing on the royal family further illustrate her engagement with both political and royal narratives in the UK.
