What does the royal prerogative consist of?

The royal prerogative consists of a set of customary privileges that have historically belonged to the monarch. This concept refers to the powers and privileges that the sovereign has exercised traditionally, which are not defined by statutory laws but are rather based on long-standing practices and conventions.

These prerogatives include various powers, such as the appointment of ministers, the granting of honors, and the conduct of foreign affairs, among others. Although many of these powers have been transferred to government officials or are now exercised by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet in a constitutional monarchy, the royal prerogative remains an important aspect of the UK's governance system. This understanding helps clarify how the monarchy's historical role has evolved in modern parliamentary democracy while still retaining certain ceremonial powers.

The other choices do not accurately represent the nature or function of the royal prerogative. Mandatory duties of citizens pertain to responsibilities of individuals within society rather than the monarch's powers, while new laws enacted by parliament and a limited, modern constitution are both aspects of legislative processes and frameworks that do not encompass the traditional privileges associated with the monarchy.