Lord Lieutenants and Deputy Lieutenants

The office of Lord Lieutenant is of military origin and dates back to the time of Henry VIII when they were appointed for the maintenance of order and for military purposes relating to local defence.

Lord Lieutenants are the Queen’s personal representatives in a county or area. Their prime duty is to uphold the dignity of the Crown.

The military role has largely disappeared, but links are maintained by association with Volunteer Reserve Forces. They are also connected with other uniformed organisations such as the Fire, Police and Ambulance services and various volunteer bodies.

Lord Lieutenants have long been associated with the magistracy and, until the 19th century, they appointed the Clerk of the Peace. Nowadays, Lords-Lieutenant generally sit as magistrates.

Lord Lieutenants are appointed by The Queen, on the advice of the Prime Minister, for each county of England and Wales.

Deputy Lieutenants are commissioned by the Lord-Lieutenant, subject to confirmation by the Secretary of State that the Queen does not disapprove of the appointment.

The function of Deputy Lieutenant is to assist in the performance of any public duty performed by the Lord Lieutenant. The normal retirement age for the Lord Lieutenants and Deputy Lieutenants is 75.