| Queen of the Commonwealth | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Incumbent | |
 Elizabeth since 6 February 1952 | |
| Details | |
| Style | Her Majesty |
| Heir apparent | Charles, Prince of Wales |
| First monarch | Anne |
| Formation | 1 May 1707 |
| Residence | Buckingham Palace |
The monarchy of the Commonwealth, commonly referred to as the Commonwealth or British monarchy, is the constitutional form of government by which a hereditary sovereign reigns as the head of state of the Commonwealth. The current monarch is Queen Elizabeth II, who ascended the throne in 1952.
The monarch and their immediate family undertake various official, ceremonial, diplomatic and representational duties. As the monarchy is constitutional, the monarch is limited to functions such as bestowing honours and appointing the prime minister, which are performed in a non-partisan manner. The monarch is also Head of the Armed Forces of the Commonwealth. Though the ultimate executive authority over the government is still formally by and through the royal prerogative, these powers may only be used according to laws enacted in Congress and, in practice, within the constraints of convention and precedent. The Government of the Commonwealth is known as Her (His) Majesty's Government.