Penny Mordaunt has gained significant attention following her prominent role in the coronation of King Charles III on 6 May 2023. As the Lord President of the Privy Council, Mordaunt was responsible for carrying the ceremonial Sword of State during the historic event, an experience that turned her into an internet sensation and earned her accolades from royal family members.
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During a recent appearance at the Oxford Literary Festival, Mordaunt reflected on the day she walked into Westminster Abbey. Clad in a striking teal dress and cape by Safiyaa, adorned with gold-leaf detailing, she led King Charles and Queen Camilla as she processed through the abbey. Not only was the role physically demanding—requiring her to hold the eight-pound sword for most of the lengthy ceremony—but it also thrust her into the public spotlight in a way she never anticipated.
Mordaunt candidly shared her surprise at the scale of attention she received. “I was clearly the lightning rod on the day for attention. Very embarrassing,” she remarked. The former cabinet minister revealed that her role resulted in an unexpected influx of correspondence, stating, “I had thousands of letters sent to me after that event—actually, more letters than I got votes at any election.” Among these, one letter stood out in particular. While she did not disclose the identity of the royal family member, she recounted that it began with the words, “How kind of the King and Queen to come to your event.”
Assuming the mantle of Lord President just two days before the late Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, Mordaunt made history by being the first woman to fulfil this ceremonial duty at a coronation. Her participation also symbolised King Charles’s intention to make the event as inclusive as possible, although she mused on whether her role would have been maintained had she been male. “I’m not sure necessarily that, if I was a bloke, whether the whole of the Lord President role would have been kept in,” she said, acknowledging the historical significance of her position.
Expressing gratitude for her involvement, Mordaunt noted that her role was part of a larger tapestry woven together by numerous individuals contributing to the ceremony. “I was so honoured to be part of the coronation along with thousands of others who played their part,” she said, recognising the efforts of armed forces and police officers who participated in the event. “In comparison, my job was rather easier,” she added, reflecting on the hard work that others undertook to ensure the day was a success.
In a lighter vein, Mordaunt shared with listeners that her preparations for the event were perhaps not as rigorous as might have been suggested in the media. She joked about the exaggerated claims that she had undergone “six months” of gym training, saying, “You want to make sure you are in good nick.” She admitted to taking a couple of painkillers beforehand but was otherwise ready to rise to the occasion. “It’s fine, it’s all good, we got through it,” she remarked about the demanding task of handling the heavy Sword of State.
As she later handed over the Sword of State for the more ornate Jewelled Sword of Offering, Mordaunt’s ability to handle the physical challenge seemed to underline her capability and resilience. When questioned about advice for future bearers of ceremonial swords, Mordaunt playfully recommended essential tips such as “practice,” ensuring a “good breakfast,” and wearing “comfortable shoes,” despite managing to do it all in heels.
Reflecting on the aftermath of such a high-profile event, Mordaunt’s activities serve as a reminder of the evolution of traditional roles within the royal pomp and circumstance. Her elevation to this ceremonial duty not only highlights her personal achievements but also marks a broader shift towards inclusivity and representation in the upper echelons of British society.
With her memorable appearance and the accompanying media coverage, Mordaunt has certainly made a mark that will be associated with this momentous occasion in British history. Her story resonates as a testament to the increasingly visible role women are beginning to play in both politics and ceremonial life, positioning her as an influential figure in contemporary Britain.