Question: Is it true that if the monarch wishes to abdicate (even in the exceptional circumstances as presented in the film) it can or could only be done by an Act of Parliament as happened with Edward VIII? In other words, The Queen can't just sign a piece of paper and end of discussion?
Neil Jones
20th Nov 2015
Chosen answer: Abdication does have to be agreed by Parliament, however the monarch could refuse to sign any new laws should the abdication be turned down. This would effectively prevent the government from operating as a result. As a general rule, the monarch agrees to sign laws, and the government would respect the wish of a monarch to abdicate.