Queen Elizabeth II, who cancelled the ceremony due to “mobility problems”; she has only missed two prior state openings in her 70-year reign.

In a tradition-rich ceremony in Parliament, Britain’s Conservative government made huge promises to slash crime, enhance health care, and recover the pandemic-ravaged economy; but without Queen Elizabeth II, who was absent for the first time in six decades.

Because of “episodic mobility problems”; the 96-year-old monarch has opted out of reading the Queen’s Speech at the traditional State Opening of Parliament. Prince Charles, her son and successor, took the floor and delivered a brief statement outlining the government’s plans to enact 38 laws.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s administration promised to “develop and improve the economy and assist relieve the cost of living for people”; according to the address, which was written by the government.

However, it offered few immediate measures to help consumers cope with rising domestic energy and food expenses.