Controversial rule that means King Charles must approve laws affecting him

The Head of State, who ascended the throne after the Queen's death nearly a fortnight ago, has an "established right of long standing" to consent to legislation that impacts it in Parliament in what is known as Royal Consent

It is a long-standing convention that a monarch is consulted on matters that concern him (

Image: Getty Images)

Secret rules mean King Charles must give his permission before MPs discuss matters that concern him directly.

The Head of State, who ascended the throne after the Queen's death nearly a fortnight ago, has a 'long-established' right to consent to legislation that affects him in Parliament .

This has raised questions about accountability over the years, with campaigners saying there is "absolutely no justification" for the monarch to hold such power.

Last year it emerged that more than 1,000 laws - on issues as diverse as race relations, parking fees and private property - had been passed during the Queen's reign.

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But the Palace maintains that consent “has not been withheld” in modern times – although some fear the convention has been used to pressure successive governments.

The convention dates back to at least the 1700s (

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Getty Images) What is Royal Consent?

King's or Queen's consent is a tradition dating back to at least the 1700s, with the earliest known record dating to the reign of George I.

Under the convention, Parliament informs the Palace whenever a matter affecting royal interests arises.

Monarchs must give ascension for legislation to progress - although the Royal Family say this is rarely used.

The Royal Family's website states: "It is also a long-established convention that Parliament asks the Monarch to give consent (which is different from assent) for debate on draft bills. law that would affect the prerogative or interests of the Crown.

"Where the monarch's consent is given, it is served in each House of Parliament and recorded in Hansard. Consent has not been withheld in modern times except on the advice of the government."

How often is it used?

Last year The Guardian before being approved by Parliament.

He said documents in the National Archives show that the late Queen used the process...