Role & Responsibilities
The post of Lord-Lieutenant of a county is an honorary appointment, whose origin dates back to Henry VIII. Lord-Lieutenants are the Monarch’s representatives in their Lieutenancy. It is their prime duty to uphold the dignity of the Crown, and in so doing they seek to promote a spirit of co-operation and good atmosphere through the support and time they give to voluntary and benevolent organisations and by the interest they take in the business and social life of their counties.
The responsibilities of the Lord-Lieutenant include:
- Arranging visits by members of the Royal Family and escorting Royal Visitors
- Presenting medals and awards on behalf of the Sovereign, and advising on Honours nominations
- Participating in civic, voluntary and social activities within the Lieutenancy
- Acting as liaison with local units of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army, Royal Air Force and their associated cadet forces
- Leading the local magistracy as chairman of the Advisory Committee on Justices of the Peace
As the Sovereign’s representative in her county, the Lord-Lieutenant remains non-political and does not hold office in any political party. The post is unpaid and Lord-Lieutenant’s retire at the age of 75.
The Lord-Lieutenant appoints a Vice Lord-Lieutenant from amongst the Deputies, who assumes responsibility if the Lord-Lieutenant is unavailable. The Lord-Lieutenant is also supported by a number of Deputy Lieutenants that he or she appoints. The number of Deputy Lieutenants is in proportion to the population of the county, and Deputy Lieutenants also retire at 75.