The departure from his historic £140k-a-year role comes amid speculation about King Charles' possible abdication. Buckingham Palace explained that this move follows precedent and is part of the "transition to a new household for the new reign." It is a consistent practice for generations to appoint a new Lord Chamberlain following the initial transition period after the death of a sovereign.
A spokesperson from Buckingham Palace stated, "In the meantime, Lord Parker will continue to support their majesties in their service to the nation and beyond."
During the late Queen's funeral, Lord Parker performed a symbolic act by breaking his Wand of Office and placing it on the Queen's coffin, signifying the end of his service to the sovereign.
Lord Parker, who served as the director general of MI5 from April 2013 for seven years, hosted a visit by the Queen to the intelligence agency in 2020. The successor to Lord Parker in the role of Lord Chamberlain has yet to be announced.
