Elizabeth R: The Role of the Monarchy Today

Published to mark the 40th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's accession to the throne, this illustrated book offers an insight into the working of the monarchy. The author was granted access to confidential information and the photographer was allowed to accompany The Queen as she carried out the great range of her activities, both public and private. The reader is taken behind the scenes at home and abroad to see how The Queen and her staff prepare for and undertake a wide variety of events over the course of a year. Her complex roles are examined - as constitutional sovereign in relation to the British Government and representing Britain to the rest of the world, and as a social influence expressed through the honours system, garden parties, personal contacts and relationship with the communications media. Sir Antony Jay is the co-writer of BBC Television's "Yes, Minister" and "Yes, Prime Minister". The book accompanies a 90 minute BBC TV documentary.