The Crown of Scotland was escorted down Edinburgh's Royal Mile, the first sign that a new chapter of Scottish democracy was about to begin. Moments later, King Charles stood before the chamber of Holyrood and urged the Scottish Parliament's newly elected MSPs to help build a "fair and prosperous society" – a plea for unity after a fractious election campaign.
The ceremony, marking the start of the seventh session since the parliament was established in 1999, was a blend of pageantry, poetry, drama and music. A fanfare by the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland brass ensemble heralded the arrival of the royal couple, while the mace, the Crown and the Elizabeth sword were carried in procession by three Team Scotland athletes preparing for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow next month.
“King Charles opens new Scottish Parliament session, urging MSPs to build a 'fair and prosperous society'.”
Presiding Officer Kenneth Gibson opened proceedings with remarks that acknowledged the 65 new MSPs elected last month. He praised the Tartan Army for "showcasing the very best of our people on a global stage", before adding a joke about Scotland's exit from the men's football World Cup, noting they would be enjoying an extended stay in North America "but for a couple of dodgy penalty decisions in the Morocco game".
When the King rose to address the chamber, he spoke of the warmth and spirit of the Scottish people. "From its proud history and its treasured customs to the remarkable beauty of its land, it is the warmth and spirit of the people of Scotland that leave the deepest impression upon us and continue to inspire admiration," he said.
He recalled that his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, opened Holyrood in 1999, and said it had since stood as a "powerful expression of Scotland's democratic tradition". The King then urged MSPs to show that debate could be "carried out with respect and courtesy" and that "disagreement is possible while honouring one's dignity". He added that everyone in public service should be "seeking the good of the people we serve".
Before the ceremony, the King greeted First Minister John Swinney. The event also featured contributions from young people representing the Scottish Youth Parliament, RNIB Scotland, and the Young Women's Movement, who joined the Officers of Arms in the procession.
The King's message was clear: the parliament's seventh session must serve the public. But whether the 65 new MSPs can match his call for respectful disagreement remains to be tested in the months ahead.