Expect to see more of Prince Charles. This is a slow-motion abdication | Ed Owens

His stand-in role to deliver the Queen's speech is the clearest sign yet that the Elizabeth II era is drawing to a close

This moment was always going to come.

Due to her failing health, Queen Elizabeth II was not present at yesterday's state opening of parliament - arguably her most important ceremonial performance in the calendar year. Last night's palace press release explaining that Prince Charles would stand in for his mother follows a pattern of recent similar announcements, the subtext of which is clear: the Queen is not well enough to fulfil the role expected of her.