Your Lieutenancy

The Lord-Lieutenant is His Majesty The King’s personal representative in Cornwall in a role that dates back almost 500 years. 

The Lord-Lieutenant is appointed by The King on the recommendation of the Prime Minister and serves until the age of 75. The role is non-political and unpaid. The Lord-Lieutenant is supported by a Vice Lord-Lieutenant and by Deputy Lieutenants, whom he appoints from people who have rendered particular service to the county in a variety of ways. Important support is also provided by Cornwall Council: in recent times, the Chief Executive has been Clerk to the Lieutenancy, while other staff in the Council provide support for Royal visits, award presentations and other ceremonies.

Although the role is historic, Lord-Lieutenants have a modern and practical role.

• They co-ordinate Royal visits.
• They promote the honours system and assess certain nominations.
• They present certain honours and awards on behalf of The King.
• They are appointed to the ancient role of custos rotulorum (Keeper of the Rolls) in their counties and, as such, chair the Lord Chancellor’s Advisory Committees which appoint magistrates.
• With their Deputy Lieutenants, they play an important role in Citizenship Ceremonies.
• They are involved with the regular and reserve forces and cadets.
• They encourage, support and assist the voluntary and charitable sectors.
• They are fully involved in many other areas of community life in Cornwall.