About the Lieutenancy
Frequently asked questions
How do I address the Lord-Lieutenant?
The correct form of address for the Lord-Lieutenant is:
Written: Lady Emma Barnard, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Sussex
Salutation: Dear Lord-Lieutenant or Dear Madam
In a speech: In the preamble the Lord-Lieutenant should be referred to as ‘My Lord-Lieutenant’. A speech might begin ‘Lord-Lieutenant, Ladies and Gentlemen’.
Conversation: On formal occasions – Lord-Lieutenant or Lady Emma.
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How long does the Lord-Lieutenant’s appointment last?
The appointment is not for a fixed period. A Lord-Lieutenant usually serves until his or her 75th Birthday.
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How is the Lord-Lieutenant appointed?
The Sovereign, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, appoints Lord-Lieutenants. The opinions of a wide range of citizens in the county are taken before the Prime Minister advises the King on possible appointees.
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Who is eligible for appointment as a Lord-Lieutenant?
Any person who is resident in the county is eligible for appointment as Lord-Lieutenant.
How much is the Lord-Lieutenant paid?
The Lord-Lieutenant is not paid.
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How can I arrange a royal visit?
To find out how to extend an invitation from your organisation, please click here to go to the Royal Visits page.
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It is the Lieutenancy Office that liaises with Buckingham Palace, the Private Office of the prospective Royal visitor and the host organisation.
How should I address Members of the Royal Family?
For the King: Your Majesty on the first occasion and Sir thereafter. Other female members of the Royal family who hold the title Her Royal Highness: Your Royal Highness on the first occasion and then Ma’am.
For male members of the Royal Family who hold the title His Royal Highness: Your Royal Highness on the first occasion and Sir thereafter.
How can I nominate someone for an honour?
For more information about the honours process and how you can nominate someone for an honour please go to the Honours and Awards section.
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How can I apply for, or nominate, an organisation for a King’s Award?
For more information on please go to the King’s Awards pages in Honours and Awards.
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How can I apply for a wedding anniversary or birthday greeting from the King?
The King sends congratulatory messages to those celebrating their 100th and 105th birthday and every year thereafter, and those celebrating their 60th, 65th and 70th wedding anniversaries and every year thereafter. You can find the forms and further guidance on the Royal Family website.
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What is a High Sheriff and how long do they serve?
The High Sheriff is appointed by the King at the March meeting of the Privy Council to hold Office for one year, having been nominated at a ceremony in the Royal Courts of Justice nearly three years previously.
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The High Sheriff is the King’s legal representative in the county and plays an active role supporting the justice system and Sussex courts, the police and emergency services as well as organisations in the voluntary sector that support crime reduction and safer communities. The High Sheriff is not paid.
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Who is the current High Sheriff of West Sussex?
The High Sheriff of West Sussex for 2024-25 is Mrs Philippa Gogarty