The Lieutenancy of Orkney
What is the Lieutenancy?
The post of Lord-Lieutenant is largely a ceremonial one.
As the King's representative in the county, the Lord-Lieutenant remains strictly apolitical and does not hold office in any political party. The role is unpaid and Lord-Lieutenants retire at the age of 75.
His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenants are representatives of the King for each county in the United Kingdom. Men and women of all backgrounds, they are appointed by the King on the advice of the Prime Minister and their principal duty is to uphold the dignity of the Crown.
Lord-Lieutenants are also responsible for ensuring that the King's Private Office is kept informed about local issues relating to their area, particularly when a Royal visit is being planned.
The responsibilities of Lord-Lieutenants include:
- representing the King at functions and ceremonies in the County;
- responsibility for arranging visits by members of the Royal family, escorting the Royal visitor around the different locations in the County;
- presenting medals and awards on behalf of the King, decorations (where the recipient is unable to attend an Investiture), and advising on Honours nominations;
- submitting names of local guests to the Lord Chamberlain for Garden Parties;
- participating in civic, voluntary and social activities within the Lieutenancy;
- liaising with local units of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army, Royal Air Force and their associated cadet forces.
The Lord-Lieutenant also officiates at Citizenship Ceremonies and may participate in Diamond Weddings and 100th Birthday Celebrations.
