The Office assists the Queen in performing her duties as Head of State, with particular emphasis on the constitutional aspects of her position. In addition, she is assisted by the Royal Household. The primary function of the Royal Household is to organise the work programmes and look after the private affairs of the Queen and the other members of the Royal House. The Office and the Royal Household work closely together, for example in organising the Queen's working and state visits.

 

Under the Constitution (Article 41) the Queen organises her own Household, with due regard for the public interest. The staff of the Royal Household are in the employ of the Queen, whereas those of the Office are civil servants.