The struggle for Scottish independence threatens preparations for the coronation of Charles III. to charge. The so-called Coronation Stone should not be brought to London from Scotland for the May 6 coronation, said Ash Regan, one of three candidates to succeed Scottish Prime Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Also known as the Stone of Scone or the Stone of Destiny, the block of sandstone must remain in its “rightful place” in Britain’s northernmost part, she said.
The Coronation Stone is a symbol of the Scottish monarchy. It was taken from King Edward I of Scots in 1296 and fitted to a new throne in London and used in all coronations from then on, including the ceremony for Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. The stone was officially returned to Scotland in 1996 and has been ever since on display in Edinburgh Castle. However, it is to be used at the coronation of Charles and Queen Camilla.
“I appreciate the tradition of using the Stone of Destiny in the coronation, but I believe it should remain in Scotland as an ancient symbol of our national heritage,” Regan of the Scottish National Party (SNP) told the Scottish Mail on Sunday. . However, a compromise is possible: According to this, the part of the coronation for which the stone is necessary can take place in Scotland. “This would be a fitting homage to the stone’s importance in Scottish history while still upholding the traditions of the United Kingdom of the Crowns,” said Regan, referring to the historic union of the kingdoms of England and Scotland.
The SNP supports Scotland’s independence from the UK and is currently seeking a successor to party and government leader Sturgeon. In addition to Regan, Finance Minister Kate Forbes and Health Minister Hamza Yousaf are also up for election. A decision should be made by March 27th.
