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Charles to succeed Queen as head of Commonwealth

Commonwealth presidents and prime ministers decided Charles will lead the global institution.

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The Prince of Wales will take over from the Queen (Yui Mok/PA)

World leaders have agreed to the Prince of Wales becoming the next leader of the Commonwealth after the Queen, according to sources.

The Queen made a personal appeal to world leaders on Thursday to choose her son for the role.

During the opening of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting she told them it was her “sincere wish” that the family of nations would one day decide the prince should carry on the Commonwealth work started by her father King George VI.

The leaders came to their decision during discussions held at their retreat, at Windsor Castle, where informal talks are held without aides or advisers present.

Lloyd Dorfman, chairman of the Prince’s Trust and Prince’s Trust International, welcomed the news that Charles is to become the next head of the Commonwealth.

Prime Minister Theresa May and Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland walk with Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio as they arrive to hold talks at Windsor Castle (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Prime Minister Theresa May and Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland with Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio as they arrive to hold talks at Windsor Castle (Andrew Matthews/PA)

“I have seen the prince operating with his charities at close quarters. His vision and efforts are making a big difference and changing lives.

“As head of the Commonwealth, the prince will be able to amplify this work and bring to the table his extensive experience, wisdom and passion.”

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