Canada elected a new federal government on April 28. The newly elected members of parliament were sworn in on May 13. The House of Commons picked a new speaker on May 26.

But another special event must happen before a new session of Parliament can open. It’s the Speech from the Throne.

Special guest

This ceremonial speech lays out the government’s plans. It’s usually read by the governor general. That’s the King’s representative in Canada.

But this time, a special guest did the job. King Charles III himself!