The order of succession is the sequence of members of the Royal Family in the order in which they stand in line to the throne. This sequence is regulated not only through descent, but also by Parliamentary statute.

Precedence determines the seniority of members of the Royal Family at official events and is influenced by a variety of laws, and by custom and tradition. Precedence among members of the Royal Family at private events is a matter for The Queen's discretion.

Thus, though The Duke of Edinburgh does not appear in the immediate line of succession, he appears directly after The Queen in the order of precedence as he is considered the second most senior member of the Royal Family.

For example, during the annual Remembrance Service at the Cenotaph, members of the Royal Family lay their wreaths at the memorial according to the order of precedence. The Queen will lay the first wreath, followed by The Duke of Edinburgh, then The Prince of Wales and so on.

Find out more about the order of succession in this section.